Tinubu departs for France aboard new presidential jet

President Bola Tinubu has embarked on a trip to Paris, France, departing from Abuja aboard the newly acquired Airbus A330. This modern aircraft replaces the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700 BBJ, which was introduced during ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, shared the update on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. The acquisition of the Airbus A330 is said to have been completed at a significantly lower cost than the market rate, which is expected to save the country millions in maintenance and fuel expenses annually.

The decision to replace the aging Boeing B737-700 came after a parliamentary inquiry raised concerns about its safety and cost-effectiveness. The aircraft had previously experienced a malfunction during a trip to Saudi Arabia, prompting the Nigerian Senate’s Security and Intelligence Committee to recommend a more reliable and economical replacement.

The presidency disclosed on Sunday that President Tinubu would be traveling to France, though the specific purpose of the visit was not detailed in the brief statement issued by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. This new aircraft is expected to enhance the efficiency of presidential travel, aligning with the administration's efforts to modernize and optimize state resources.

See The Twwet Below;

President Tinubu departs for France

President Tinubu departed Abuja Monday for Paris, France using the new Airbus A330, which replaced the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ) bought under the Presidency of President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The new plane, bought far below the market… pic.twitter.com/fxVj7dKWmW — Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) August 19, 2024