Reps committee recommends purchase of new presidential jet for Tinubu, Shettima

The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has recommended that the Federal Government should purchase new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

The committee’s report, which was published subsequent to its investigation into the presidential air fleet, suggests that the procurement of two additional aircraft is necessary due to concerns regarding the technical and operational sufficiency of the current fleet.

The committee emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel for the president and vice-president, stating that this investment would be cost-effective in the long term.

Earlier this year, the House of Representatives mandated the committee to thoroughly examine the airworthiness and technical status of the existing presidential aircraft.

This decision was made following a motion by Satomi Ahmed, chairman of the House Committee, which sparked debates among lawmakers regarding the best mode of presidential travel amid reports of faulty aircraft.

During a recent overseas trip, the president had to resort to a chartered plane from the Netherlands to Saudi Arabia due to issues with the presidential air fleet.