In a recent report by SaharaReporters, it has been disclosed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has acquired a luxury Airbus A330 aircraft valued at N150 billion for presidential use, despite facing criticism from multiple quarters.
Citing Empowered Newswire, SaharaReporters stated that the aircraft is currently located in France and has reached an advanced stage of preparation. The aircraft has been outfitted with a tail registration featuring the seal of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, indicating its intended use for official presidential functions.
The specific aircraft in question is identified as an ACJ330-200, registered under tail number 5N-FGA (msn 1053). It boasts luxurious amenities including a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, an office space, and a conference and dining room.
Additionally, it features both first-class and economy seating arrangements towards the rear, resembling an airline-style configuration.
International aviation sources and news outlets have confirmed that as of early afternoon Nigerian time on July 15, 2024, the aircraft had been flown from Germany to Saint Louis Airport in France for final preparations.
This development comes amid earlier reports by SaharaReporters on June 28, detailing the Nigerian government’s plan to allocate over N150 billion towards a new presidential jet, sparking considerable public debate and controversy.
The expenditure is under scrutiny against the backdrop of economic challenges and heightened inflation rates in the nation.
PREMIUM TIMES previously reported that the Nigerian government had identified an Airbus A330 aircraft, formerly owned by an embattled oil sheikh, which had been seized by a German bank due to default on a multi-million dollar loan. The aircraft was slated for purchase pending financial arrangements.
Reports indicated that the government had offered approximately $100 million for the repossessed aircraft, equivalent to N150.7 billion based on the prevailing exchange rate at the time.
The sale is said to have been facilitated by L & L International LLC, a Miami-based aviation firm acting on behalf of the German bank.
AMAC Aerospace AG, a Swiss aviation company with a contract for maintaining aircraft in the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF), was reportedly involved in facilitating the acquisition.
However, AMAC Aerospace AG declined to comment on the transaction, citing company policy.
The Airbus A330 model chosen for presidential use integrates advanced engineering enhancements for enhanced comfort, efficiency, and range.
Originally designed for demanding VIP and private markets, the aircraft represents a pinnacle of luxury aviation technology.
For further updates on this developing story and more insights, SaharaReporters remains a key source of information.