By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Nigerians are expressing widespread outrage following the acquisition of a new presidential plane for President Bola Tinubu during one of the nation’s worst economic crises in decades. The news of the purchase comes just weeks after thousands of citizens took to the streets to protest against rising hunger and skyrocketing costs of living.
Economic Reforms and Public Discontent
President Tinubu, who took office last year as the leader of Africa's most populous nation, has implemented several economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies. While these measures are aimed at reducing government spending and promoting long term growth, they have also led to soaring inflation, which currently exceeds 30%. Despite these austerity measures, the purchase of a new Airbus A330 for the president has sparked anger among citizens, who feel the government is out of touch with their daily struggles. The aircraft, which joins a fleet of over five other planes, was used by President Tinubu for his recent trip to France, raising questions about the government’s spending priorities.
Public Backlash and Government Defense
The cost of the new plane has not been disclosed, nor has the purpose of Tinubu’s trip to France. However, the news has ignited fierce criticism on social media. Many Nigerians have taken to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their frustration. One user, @Fdmlearn, highlighted the contradiction between the government urging citizens to endure economic hardship while splurging on a new jet. Another user, @RealOlaudah, condemned the purchase as "wicked" and "insensitive," especially given the widespread poverty in the country.
On the other hand, some have defended the president’s decision, arguing that the plane is an asset of the office, not a personal luxury. According to President Tinubu’s media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the new plane was purchased below market price and is expected to save the government millions in maintenance and fuel costs. The 15 year old aircraft, valued at $600 million, was recently released to Nigeria after being seized by a Chinese firm following an investment dispute. It replaces a 19 year old Boeing BBJ 737-700, which officials have said was becoming too costly to maintain.
Despite these explanations, the purchase has fueled ongoing debates about government spending and accountability, with many questioning whether the acquisition was included in the recently approved supplementary budget, which raised the 2024 budget from 28.7 trillion naira to 35.06 trillion naira. As Nigerians continue to grapple with economic challenges, the new plane serves as a potent symbol of the growing disconnect between the government and the people it serves.
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