A report has uncovered that the Federal Government spent N19.43 billion on the Presidential Air Fleet’s maintenance and operations from July 2023 to September 2024, sparking debate over government expenditure. According to GovSpend, a civic tech platform that tracks federal spending, these funds supported international flights, maintenance, and fuel for Nigeria’s presidential planes. This allocation represents a significant 66% of the 2024 fiscal budget for the fleet.

Disbursements were often labeled “Forex Transit Funds,” covering costs like fuel and maintenance for overseas trips. In 2024 alone, N13.55 billion was earmarked for the fleet, with several large transactions recorded. In July 2023, N1.52 billion was spent in two tranches, and by August, monthly expenditures hit N5.60 billion, including N35 million in September.

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The fleet recently saw a $100 million Airbus A330 purchase to replace the aging Boeing 737, reportedly aiming to save on future maintenance costs. However, critics argue that these expenditures clash with public expectations of fiscal responsibility. Aviation Round Table Secretary Olumide Ohunayo attributes rising costs to the aging aircraft, foreign exchange rates, and increasing insurance due to security concerns in Nigeria.

Despite these concerns, Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga defended the expenditures, highlighting the fleet’s necessity for the nation’s safety and operations, adding that the new jet would reduce future costs. However, the expenditures raise questions about whether government spending aligns with Nigeria’s economic challenges and public expectations of austerity.