The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has called on the Federal Government to purchase new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
According to a report released by the committee, the current Presidential Air Fleet is in dire need of upgrade, citing security concerns and high maintenance costs.
The committee’s investigation revealed that the fleet’s current state poses a risk to the safety and security of the President, Vice President, and other government officials, according to Daily Post.
The committee’s recommendation emphasizes the importance of a reliable and secure presidential fleet, essential for the country’s stability and national security.
The report did not disclose the estimated cost of the new aircraft or the timeline for their acquisition.
“The committee is of the strong and informed opinion that, considering the fragile structure of the Nigerian federation and recognising 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.”
The House of Representatives had in May mandated the committee to conduct a “comprehensive investigation” into the aircraft in the Presidential Air Fleet to ascertain their airworthiness and technical status.
The House’s resolution followed a motion sponsored by Satomi Ahmed, Chairman of the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence.
There was a heated debate on the floor of House when the motion was moved.
Some lawmakers were of the view that the President should travel via commercial aircraft or by road.
