Full List of Controversial Expenses made by Tinubu govt You need to Know

Public outrage continues to grow over the Bola Tinubu administration’s decision to purchase a new presidential jet.

The allocation of over N150 billion for the aircraft purchase has sparked widespread anger, particularly as Nigerians struggle with a challenging economic climate and ongoing cost-of-living issues.

Tinubu’s policies, including the removal of subsidies and exchange rate unification, have contributed to rising commodity prices, which experts attribute to the current inflationary pressures.

Over the past year, the president has repeatedly asked Nigerians to endure the hardships caused by his policies. Despite this, the government seems reluctant to adhere to its own advice, with inflation currently at 33 percent.

In this report, NIGERIA NEWS 247 examines some of the most extravagant expenditures of the current administration.

Presidential Jet

The Airbus A330, which has replaced the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700 (BBJ) purchased during Olusegun Obasanjo’s presidency, reportedly cost the Nigerian government over $100 million.

The acquisition of this luxurious jet, approved by the House Committee, has been met with significant backlash from many Nigerians who view the decision as insensitive amid widespread economic hardship.

Although the National Assembly has yet to allocate funds specifically for the purchase, the president has already used the jet for a flight to France. Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated his readiness to approve any necessary measures to finalize the purchase.

Oby Ezekwesili, a former minister, criticized the move during her appearance on Arise Television’s ‘Politics Today’ on Sunday, questioning how purchasing a high-end aircraft aligns with the government’s priorities in addressing severe hunger and poverty.

Presidential Yacht

Last year, the government faced substantial backlash over its plan to purchase a presidential yacht. In the 2023 supplementary budget of N2.17 trillion, President Tinubu proposed allocating N5 billion for the yacht’s acquisition.

The proposal sparked widespread outrage, leading the National Assembly to reject the request and redirect the funds to other priorities. Despite this, reports suggest that the yacht may have already arrived in the country, although the government has neither confirmed nor denied this.

NIGERIA NEWS 247 has learned that the House of Representatives is now pressuring the Navy to return the yacht to the vendor.

N21 Billion House for Shettima

Another contentious expenditure under this administration is the reported N21 billion spent on finishing the Vice President’s official residence.

Despite other pressing infrastructure needs, Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, prioritized the completion of this residential project. Public outrage did not deter the minister, who proceeded with finishing and commissioning the residence.

N160 Million Cars for National Assembly Members

Amid the ongoing economic difficulties, members of the National Assembly have also enjoyed a taste of luxury with the acquisition of high-end Sport Utility Vehicles, reportedly costing N160 million each for members of the House.

Details about the Senate’s vehicles are less clear, but they are anticipated to receive even more. Although the House has stated that these vehicles are official and will be returned at the end of the administration, NIGERIA NEWS 247 has learned that some lawmakers chose to receive cash instead of the vehicles.

N90 Billion Subsidy for Hajj

The government allocated N90 billion for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Due to the devaluation of the naira, the cost of Hajj rose sharply, prompting the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to revise the fees multiple times. In response, the government intervened with a N90 billion subsidy. However, this substantial sum is now under investigation by various anti-corruption agencies.

Jalal Arabi, Chairman of NAHCON, along with several other management staff, has been arrested by the EFCC over alleged mismanagement of the N90 billion subsidy.

N1.5 Billion Cars for Office of the First Lady

Nigerians have had a complex relationship with the Office of the First Lady, largely due to the overbearing nature of some occupants who, despite not being elected, often intrude into governance matters.

Additionally, there is concern over the costs associated with running the office, which is primarily a ceremonial role. In the 2023 supplementary budget, the government proposed allocating N1.5 billion for the purchase of vehicles for the Office of the First Lady.