The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party have expressed strong opposition to the N55bn allocated for the maintenance of the presidential fleet in the 2025 budget. The proposed sum, contained in the 2025 Appropriation Bill awaiting National Assembly approval, covers aircraft engine overhauls, fueling, fumigation, and other operational costs. Critics argue that this allocation is a misplaced priority given the country’s economic challenges.
Records show that over N19.43bn was spent on the presidential fleet between July 2023 and September 2024. The 2025 budget further earmarks N8.6bn for air navigation equipment, N5.5bn for the overhaul of one aircraft engine, and an additional N3.1bn for two other engines. Other expenditures include N1.5bn for aircraft fuel and N311m for insurance premiums, which are expected to involve foreign companies due to local firms’ limited capacity.
Labour Party spokesperson Abayomi Arabambi described the spending as "inhuman and satanic," emphasizing that such luxury is unacceptable amidst widespread poverty. Similarly, anti-corruption advocate Debo Adeniran criticized the government’s profligacy, calling for a reallocation of resources to address citizens' needs. Public backlash also came from traders and professionals who described the spending as insensitive and disconnected from Nigeria’s economic realities.
The PDP’s Kamorudeen Ajisafe questioned the necessity of the allocation, while citizens like Mrs. Aina, a trader, decried the stark contrast between the funds for the fleet and the daily struggles of average Nigerians. Critics urged the government to rethink its priorities and focus on alleviating the hardships faced by millions across the country.
