Public outrage has erupted over the Bola Tinubu administration’s recent purchase of a new presidential jet. The government allocated over N150 billion for the aircraft, a decision that has sparked widespread anger as Nigerians continue to struggle with a tough economic environment and rising living costs.
Critics point to Tinubu’s policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates, which have led to a significant rise in commodity prices. Experts believe these policies are fueling the current inflation, which now stands at 33 percent. Despite urging Nigerians to endure the resulting hardships, the government appears unwilling to follow its own advice.
This report by DAILY POST examines some of the most extravagant expenditures under the current administration.
Presidential Jet
The government recently replaced the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ), purchased during Olusegun Obasanjo’s presidency, with an Airbus A330. The new aircraft reportedly cost the Nigerian government over $100 million. Despite claims from the National Assembly that funds for the purchase had not yet been appropriated, the president has already used the jet for a trip to France.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has consistently expressed his willingness to approve any request needed to finalize the purchase. This move has drawn sharp criticism, with former minister Oby Ezekwesili questioning why the government, amid widespread poverty and hunger, would prioritize purchasing a luxurious aircraft.
Presidential Yacht
Last year, plans to purchase a presidential yacht for N5 billion sparked significant backlash. The proposal was included in the 2023 supplementary budget of N2.17 trillion. The National Assembly eventually redirected the funds toward other expenses following public outcry. However, sources suggest that the yacht had already arrived in the country by that time, though the government has neither confirmed nor denied this.
Reports indicate that the House of Representatives is pressuring the Navy to return the yacht to the vendor.
N21 Billion Residence for Vice President
Another controversial expenditure is the reported N21 billion spent on completing the official residence of Vice President Kashim Shettima. Despite the pressing need for other infrastructure projects, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, prioritized this residential project, leading to public outrage. Nevertheless, the project was completed and commissioned.
N160 Million Vehicles for National Assembly Members
Despite the current economic challenges, members of the National Assembly received luxury Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs), each costing an estimated N160 million. It is unclear what vehicles the Senate members received, though they are expected to be even more costly. While the House claims these vehicles are official and will be returned at the end of the administration, reports suggest that some lawmakers opted for cash instead.
N90 Billion Hajj Subsidy
The government also allocated N90 billion for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. The devaluation of the naira led to a sharp increase in the cost of the Hajj, forcing the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to revise fees multiple times. The government’s subsidy has now become the focus of several investigations by anti-graft agencies, leading to the arrest of NAHCON Chairman Jalal Arabi and other officials over alleged mismanagement of the funds.
N1.5 Billion for Office of the First Lady
The Office of the First Lady, which has often been criticized for its overreach and the significant costs associated with it, was allocated N1.5 billion in the 2023 supplementary budget to purchase vehicles. This expenditure has further fueled public discontent, given the largely ceremonial nature of the office.
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