Tinubu, Shettima to Get 2 New Aircraft, Reps Recommend

President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima

Nigerian House of Representatives Committee recommends new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, citing safety and security concerns with current fleet. Report highlights need for reliable and secure air transportation, and notes that new aircraft will address critical need.

The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has recommended the acquisition of new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, following an investigation into the condition of the presidential air fleet. In a report released by the committee, it was revealed that the current fleet is in a state of disrepair, necessitating the purchase of new aircraft to ensure the safety and security of the President and Vice-President during official travels.

The committee's recommendation comes after a thorough examination of the existing aircraft, which were found to be outdated and in need of replacement. The report highlights the importance of providing the President and Vice-President with reliable and secure air transportation, and notes that the purchase of new aircraft will help to address this critical need. 

The recommendation is expected to be considered by the Federal Government, which will determine the next steps in the process of acquiring new aircraft for the presidential air fleet.

“The committee is of the strong and informed opinion that, 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 the technical or operational inadequacy of the presidential air fleet, it is in the best interest of the country to procure two additional aircraft as recommended,” the report reads.

“This will also prove to be most cost- efficient in the long run, apart from the added advantage of providing a suitable, comfortable, and safe carrier befitting of the status and responsibilities of the office of the president and vice-president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

In May, the House of Representatives mandated the Committee on National Security and Intelligence to conduct a thorough investigation into the airworthiness and technical status of the aircraft in the presidential fleet. This directive came in response to a recent incident in April, where the presidential jet experienced technical issues while President Bola Tinubu was on an official visit to the Netherlands.

The committee's investigation was prompted by concerns about the safety and reliability of the presidential aircraft, following the embarrassing incident in April. The House of Representatives aimed to determine the condition of the aircraft and identify any necessary repairs or replacements to ensure the President's safety during official travels.

The committee's findings and recommendations, as outlined in their report, are expected to inform the Federal Government's decisions on upgrading or replacing the presidential fleet.