Katsina Times

Breaking News

Nigeria to Auction Three Presidential Jets

Katsina City News
23 Jun, 2024
View 627

The Nigerian Federal Government has engaged a U.S.-based broker to auction three Presidential aircraft that have been in use for several years.

JetHQ has been appointed as the broker to auction the three aircraft, which include a Boeing 737 Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), regularly used by the President, a Gulfstream model, and a Falcon 7×.

JetHQ will appraise the aircraft, market them, and sell them to interested buyers.

An official, in a discussion, mentioned that the proceeds from the sale would be used to supplement the purchase of new aircraft.

Earlier this week, the Senate supported the urgent acquisition of new aircraft for President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, citing the risk to the President’s safety.

The Senate Committee on National Security Affairs concurred with the House Committee on National Security Affairs, endorsing the immediate procurement of new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Committee Chairman Shehu Baba, speaking with our correspondent during his Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, emphasized that delaying the replacement of the aircraft could endanger the President’s life.

“Have you seen the committee’s report? The committee conducted thorough investigations before reaching its conclusions. It consulted officials responsible for the maintenance of the Presidential aircraft.

“The committee gathered all necessary information, which led to the urgent recommendation for the procurement of new aircraft for the President and Vice President.

“Although we are facing severe economic challenges, this should not be a reason to jeopardize the lives of our President, Vice President, senior officials, and the public.

“The incidents involving the Iranian President and the Vice President of Malawi should serve as lessons for us.”

On Friday, this newspaper reported that lawmakers were pushing for the prompt acquisition of new aircraft for Tinubu and Shettima.

The House Committee on Security and Intelligence urged the Federal Government to expedite the purchase of new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

This call comes amidst ongoing negotiations between labour unions NLC, TUC, and the Federal Government.

The committee’s report, submitted after a sub-committee assessed the condition of the Presidential aircraft, highlighted the urgent need for new aircraft to prevent potential accidents.

“Based on the findings, the committee is convinced of the necessity to acquire new aircraft for the President and Vice President to mitigate any fears of unforeseen incidents.”

The report, signed by Committee Chairman Ahmed Satomi and House Clerk Makwe Eric, indicates that six aircraft and six helicopters are currently part of the Presidential fleet, with two of the helicopters unfit for flight even after repairs.

The President's aircraft, a Boeing 737, has been in service for 19 years and is currently undergoing annual maintenance.

The Vice President’s aircraft, a 13-year-old Gulfstream G550, is reported to be in good condition.