Nigeria Receives N150 Billion New Presidential Jet: Airbus A330 Lands in Abuja

A brand-new Airbus A330 aircraft, valued at N150 billion, touched down at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Sunday evening, marking a significant addition to Nigeria’s presidential fleet. The aircraft, which departed from EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg in France at 4:16 pm, landed in Abuja at 8:29 pm, ready to transport President Bola Tinubu on his upcoming trip to France.

According to a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, President Tinubu will embark on a brief work visit to France on Monday, August 19, and return to Nigeria upon completion of his engagements. The newly acquired luxury jet will facilitate the President’s travel, offering top-end luxury, comfort, and range.

The aircraft’s arrival follows the release of one of the three presidential jets previously confiscated by a French court in favor of Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, a Chinese firm, over a dispute with the Ogun State Government. The Chinese company characterized the release as a goodwill gesture, citing the upcoming meeting between President Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Security Nigeria had earlier reported the aircraft’s presence in France, where it underwent preparation and was assigned a tail registration featuring the seal of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The ACJ330-200, VP-CAC (msn 1053), registered as 5N-FGA, boasts a luxurious interior, complete with a bedroom, office, conference and dining room, and airline-style seating.

The acquisition of the new presidential jet has sparked controversy, with many questioning the N150 billion expenditure amidst economic challenges and record inflation. Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, has expressed skepticism about the seizure and release of the presidential jets, suggesting a staged event to launch the new aircraft.