In a recent Senate plenary session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that the Senate would approve the purchase of a new presidential jet if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submits a request. Akpabio made it clear that no formal request has been received from the President regarding this matter.
Addressing the Senate after a closed-door meeting that lasted about an hour, Akpabio emphasized the Senate's commitment to enhancing the living standards of Nigerians while also acknowledging the essential duties of the President.
“We will approve things that would improve the living standard of the people. At the same time, we will also take cognizance of the duties of the president,” Akpabio remarked. He assured that necessary measures, such as repairing the President’s vehicle or plane, would be taken if required. “There is nothing before us. I don’t think you should worry about it.”
Akpabio highlighted the critical importance of maintaining the presidential fleet by referencing incidents involving faulty aircraft leading to the deaths of the vice president of Malawi and the president of Iran. “We shouldn’t ever sit and allow such to be at the ocean,” he said, stressing the Senate’s responsibility in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the presidential fleet.
The Senate President dismissed rumors and anticipatory criticisms about the potential purchase, reaffirming the Senate's dedication to addressing issues beneficial to the country’s governance. “The National Assembly is very responsible. We will look into issues that will benefit the governance of the country,” he stated, adding that the matter of a new presidential plane is not currently under consideration.
The Senate had interrupted their recess, originally scheduled to end on July 2, 2024, for an emergency session to consider a bill amending the 2023 supplementary appropriation act. The amendment, requested by President Tinubu, aims to extend the implementation of the act to December 31, 2024.
