The Presidency on Monday unveiled a new Airbus A330 purchased for President Bola Tinubu, marking a significant upgrade to the presidential fleet.
The announcement came as President Tinubu departed Abuja for Paris, France, utilizing the new aircraft for the first time.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, revealed details of the acquisition via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account. The new jet replaces a 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ) that had been in service since the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
According to Onanuga, the Airbus A330 was procured “far below the market price” and is expected to generate substantial savings in maintenance and fuel costs, potentially amounting to millions of dollars annually. However, the exact purchase price was not disclosed.
The decision to replace the aging Boeing jet followed recommendations from the Nigerian Senate’s security and intelligence committee. Concerns had been raised about the old aircraft’s safety record and cost efficiency, particularly after a malfunction during a trip to Saudi Arabia.
Onanuga described the new presidential jet as spacious and equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, a customized interior, and an advanced communications system. These features are expected to enhance both the comfort and functionality of the aircraft for official duties.
President Tinubu’s departure for France marks his fourth trip to the European country since taking office. The Airbus A330 took off from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 4:08 pm local time, carrying the President and key aides.
