The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party have strongly criticized the proposed allocation of N55 billion in the 2025 budget for the maintenance of the presidential fleet.
This allocation, which is part of the 2025 Appropriation Bill submitted to the National Assembly for approval, includes funding for overhauling the engines of three aircraft, as well as covering expenses for fueling, cleaning, air navigation, and other related costs.
If approved, the total expenditure for the presidential fleet maintenance will exceed N55 billion, a sum that has sparked widespread criticism. The allocation is part of the broader aviation ministry budget, which stands at N105.95 billion for 2025. Key recipients within the ministry include the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
The controversy centers on the sizable budget for the fleet, especially in light of the financial hardships many Nigerians face. Critics, including Labour Party spokesperson Abayomi Arabambi, decried the expenditure as a “misplaced priority,” arguing that spending such a large sum on the presidential fleet is an insult to the Nigerian masses. Arabambi emphasized that the government should focus on addressing poverty and inequality rather than investing in luxury aircraft.
Some have also questioned whether this budget will involve the procurement of new aircraft, given that the presidential fleet already includes a recently purchased Airbus A330, which cost over $100 million.
While the government has defended the spending as necessary for maintaining national security and the smooth operation of state functions, the opposition continues to call for a reevaluation of priorities to better reflect the needs of the Nigerian people.
