The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has requested the Federal Government to Procure a new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
The committee’s suggestion is contained in a report delivered after its investigation concerning the status of the aircraft in the presidential air fleet.
“The committee is of the strong and informed opinion that, considering the fragile structure of the Nigerian federation and recognizing the dire consequences of any foreseen or unforeseen mishap that may arise as a result of the technical or operational inadequacy of the presidential air fleet, it is in the best interest of the country to procure two additional aircraft as recommended,” the report reads.
“This will also prove to be most cost-efficient in the long run, apart from the added advantage of providing a suitable, comfortable, and safe carrier befitting of the status and responsibilities of the office of the president and vice-president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
In May, the house of representatives mandated the panel to conduct a “comprehensive investigation” into the aircraft in the presidential fleet to determine their airworthiness and technical status.
The House resolution was sequel to a motion sponsored by Satomi Ahmed, chairman of the House Committee.
There was a heated debate on the floor of House when the motion was moved.
Some lawmakers proposed that the President ought to travel via commercial aircraft or by road.
Ahmed’s motion followed reports of faulty aircraft in the presidential air fleet, compelling the President to use a chartered plane from the Netherlands to Saudi Arabia during his recent trip abroad.
