The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has recommended that the federal government purchase new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. This recommendation follows a series of incidents involving the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF), which has led to Tinubu and Shettima using chartered flights for recent engagements due to technical issues with the presidential jets.
In April 2024, President Tinubu had to charter a plane to travel from the Netherlands to Saudi Arabia for the World Economic Forum (WEF). Similarly, Vice President Shettima faced a mid-flight technical fault while en route to the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, United States, necessitating a detour.
These incidents prompted the House of Representatives to mandate an investigation into the airworthiness and status of the PAF. The investigation, led by Hon. Ahmed Satomi (APC-Borno), highlighted the risks posed by the fleet’s current technical state. Satomi emphasized the importance of maintaining the aircraft in optimal condition for the safety of the president and vice president, citing the potential threat to their lives due to technical faults.
The committee’s report underscored the need for immediate procurement of two additional aircraft. The report stated, “Considering the fragile structure of the Nigerian federation and recognizing the dire consequences of any foreseen or unforeseen mishap that may arise as a result of technical/operational inadequacy of the Presidential Air Fleet, it is in the best interest of the country to procure two additional aircraft as recommended.”
The recommendation aims to ensure the safety and security of the nation’s highest officeholders, providing them with reliable and secure transportation. Lawmakers have forwarded the report to the president for action, emphasizing the long-term cost efficiency and the importance of having a suitable and comfortable carrier befitting the status and responsibilities of the president and vice president.