New presidential jet unveiled as Tinubu departs for France
The new Airbus A330 purchased for President Bola Tinubu as the new presidential jet has been unveiled.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, released the pictures of the presidential jet via his verified X handle on Monday.
Onanuga stated that the new jet replaces the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ) bought during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
He wrote, “President Tinubu departed Abuja Monday for Paris, France, using the new Airbus A330, which replaced the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ) bought under the Presidency of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“The new plane bought far below the market price saves Nigeria huge maintenance and fuel costs, running into millions of dollars yearly.
“The recommendation to replace the B737-700(BBJ) followed an investigative hearing by Nigeria’s parliament that questioned the plane’s safety record and cost efficiency, especially after it malfunctioned during a trip to Saudi Arabia.
“The Nigerian Senate’s security and intelligence committee recommended replacing the ageing aircraft in the presidential fleet to reduce downtime and operational expenses.
“The new plane is spacious and is furnished with state-of-the-art avionics, customized interior and communications system.”
Meanwhile, Resident Tinubu has departed the Federal Capital Territory for France.
The Airbus A330 business jet conveying the President and some of his key aides lifted off from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 04:08 pm.
Tinubu’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, announced on Sunday that the President will embark on his fourth trip to the European country on Monday, August 19,2024.
The President is departing the country following a wave of nationwide economic hardship protest which hits the country recently.
