The federal government has reportedly acquired a luxury Airbus A330 for presidential use.
Politics Nigeria reports that news of the government’s plan to purchase a new presidential jet had sparked outrage from Nigerians who are currently battling with various levels of hardships caused by some policies of the Bola Tinubu administration.
The House of Representatives and top government officials had defended the move, saying acquiring a new jet was more cost effective than maintaining the old ones.
According to Empowered Newswire on Monday evening , the aircraft is currently in France and has been spotted at an advanced stage of preparation.
The plane has been assigned a tail registration that features the seal of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It was reportedly ready for delivery.
The aircraft in question is an ACJ330-200, VP-CAC (msn 1053), registered as 5N-FGA.
It features a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom at the front, followed by an office and a conference and dining room. It also has an airline-style first-class and economy seating at the rear.
The report noted that informed sources from international aviation firms and news sites also indicate that as of early afternoon Nigerian time on July 15, 2024, the plane has been flown from Germany to an airport in Saint Louis, France.
The Airbus 330 is now wearing the tail registration of the Nigerian presidential jet 5N-FGA and also adorned with the Nigerian Presidential Seal.
The A330 combines new-generation engines, aerodynamic and other improvements to deliver even more comfort and efficiency. Designed for highly-demanding VIP and private markets, the aircraft delivers top-end luxury, comfort and range.
