By Daniel Edu
As part of the administration’s efforts to save costs, the government of President Bola Tinubu is reportedly considering the sale of three presidential jets from the Presidential Air Fleet, which currently comprises ten aircraft, including six jets and four helicopters.
Concerns have been raised over the escalating maintenance costs associated with the fleet, prompting the decision to dispose of the three aircraft identified as the most burdensome in terms of maintenance expenses.
A source familiar with the matter stated that the President is uncomfortable with the rising costs of maintaining the planes and is keen on reducing the financial burden on the nation. The decision to sell the aircraft comes as a response to the frequency of maintenance and the substantial costs incurred.
Earlier reports indicated that in December 2023, the Federal Government approved the sale of the Falcon 900B aircraft from the Presidential fleet, in compliance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act 2007. The Nigerian Air Force invited interested parties to submit bids for the purchase of the aircraft through email or physical submissions.
