Billions Spent on Maintenance for Presidential Jet Raises Concerns

• Air Force 001, serving President Tinubu, faces concern due to hefty maintenance costs, reaching billions of naira over time
• Former Presidential Air Fleet Commandeer suggests demobilizing the aircraft due to persistent high maintenance costs, prompting growing worries

Nigeria’s presidential aircraft, Air Force 001, serving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has stirred growing concern due to its hefty maintenance costs, amounting to billions of naira.

According to a senior official familiar with the maintenance of the presidential fleet, the routine upkeep and procurement of parts for the aircraft have incurred significant expenses over time.

This trend is not recent, as it has persisted, prompting former Presidential Air Fleet Commandeer, AVM AA Yaro, to recommend its demobilization.

Air Force 001, a 737 Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), was acquired during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo at a cost of $43 million.

While the age of the aircraft does not inherently affect its performance, maintenance costs escalate compared to newer and more modern aircraft, as reported by our correspondent.

Despite undergoing comprehensive maintenance a month before the expiration of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, the aircraft has continued to require scheduled and unscheduled maintenance since Tinubu assumed office.

Sources knowledgeable about the presidential fleet’s operations disclosed that the aircraft has accrued over $5 million in maintenance bills, nearly half of the total liabilities inherited by the presidential fleet.

With neighboring countries boasting relatively newer aircraft, experts suggest that purchasing a new aircraft would be more cost-effective in the long run.

For instance, Ivory Coast operates newer aircraft such as the A319 and A320 for longer trips, while Senegal utilizes A320Neo and A319 in addition to smaller jets.

It’s noted that Airbus and BBJ have become the preferred choice for presidential travel in most African countries, offering VIP cabins capable of accommodating at least 30 passengers.

An aircraft engineer, speaking anonymously, emphasized that the age of an aircraft can be mitigated by installing new engines, but stressed the importance of ensuring the president’s safety and comfort with a well-maintained and reliable aircraft.