President Bola Tinubu’s recently acquired presidential jet, the Airbus A330-200, has returned to Abuja after undergoing expensive refurbishment in South Africa. This development has ignited renewed criticism from citizens and civil society groups who believe the extravagant purchase undermines Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with inflation, unemployment, and national debt.

The aircraft, which reportedly cost a staggering N150 billion (approximately $100 million), now sports Nigeria’s official colors — a white fuselage with green stripes — along with the crest of the Nigerian Air Force. It was spotted on Wednesday at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

Refurbishment Details and Silent Return

Originally purchased in August 2024, the Airbus had remained grounded since February 2025. Without public announcement, officials quietly sent the aircraft to South Africa for a repaint and minor interior improvements. A reliable source within the Presidency revealed that the aircraft had returned for final checks by the Nigerian Air Force before re-entering official service.

On Friday, the Presidency released footage showing President Tinubu boarding the refurbished jet for a trip to Kano State. The aircraft is now officially registered with the call sign “Eagle One.”

Cost-Saving Justification Sparks Skepticism

Presidency officials claim the Airbus A330-200 will save the government millions of dollars annually by reducing fuel consumption and maintenance costs. They argue that the new aircraft replaces the aging Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) previously used by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The presidential jet, equipped with luxury features such as a master bedroom, shower, high-security communication systems, and a conference room, was reportedly delivered initially in a commercial livery. Officials had to repaint it in national colors before it could serve presidential functions.

Industry experts estimate that repainting such a wide-body aircraft could cost between $190,000 and $320,000, depending on design complexity. However, analysts suggest that the simple green-and-white paint job likely kept the cost closer to the lower end of the range. Despite mounting criticism, the Presidency has not disclosed the exact amount spent on this repainting process.

Public Backlash Over Spending During Economic Crisis

Many Nigerians are furious about the timing of the expenditure. The country continues to face significant economic hardship, including rising food prices, high fuel costs, widespread unemployment, and deteriorating infrastructure. Critics believe the jet represents yet another example of government officials placing luxury above citizens’ welfare.

Civil society organizations and opposition figures argue that the money spent on the aircraft could have been redirected toward more urgent national needs. “At a time when Nigerians are struggling to eat, and civil servants are owed months of salaries, this administration is spending billions on aircraft upgrades,” lamented one critic who preferred to remain anonymous.

A Crowded Presidential Air Fleet Raises Eyebrows

The refurbished Airbus now joins what has become one of Africa’s largest and most costly presidential air fleets. President Tinubu currently commands at least 11 aircraft, including two Agusta 101 helicopters, multiple Falcon 7Xs, a Gulfstream G550, and the now-retired Boeing BBJ. Sources indicate that three out of the seven fixed-wing aircraft are currently unserviceable.

Notably, the BBJ acquired in 2005 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo has been put up for sale. JetHQ, the American aviation brokerage firm handling the sale, confirmed its involvement but declined to reveal the asking price.

Presidency Defends the Purchase as Prudent

In response to the backlash, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, strongly defended the purchase. He emphasized that replacing the aging BBJ with a newer aircraft would ultimately lower operational costs. According to Onanuga, the government previously spent hundreds of millions annually on maintaining the old jet.

He argued that acquiring the Airbus reflects “forward-thinking governance,” adding that modernization of the fleet will enhance presidential mobility and improve overall efficiency.

Contradictions in Cost-Cutting Promises

Despite such justifications, many Nigerians remain unconvinced. During his campaign and early presidency, Tinubu pledged to reduce the cost of governance and downsize Nigeria’s bloated bureaucratic structure. Yet, his administration continues to operate an expansive and expensive aviation fleet.

These actions have raised doubts about the sincerity of Tinubu’s economic reform agenda. Observers argue that downsizing the Presidential Air Fleet would have served as a more powerful symbol of fiscal responsibility and solidarity with struggling citizens.

Coincidence with Royal Condolence Visit Raises Eyebrows

Interestingly, the refurbished jet returned just as President Tinubu prepared to embark on a condolence visit to Ogun State. He was heading there to pay his respects following the death of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91 after a remarkable 65-year reign.

Critics view the jet’s return as a publicity move, timed to project national strength and prestige, even as millions of Nigerians face deepening poverty.

Persistent Criticism of Government Priorities

The Tinubu administration continues to face accusations of misplaced priorities. While the government pushes economic reforms, including subsidy removals and currency devaluation, its own spending patterns often contradict these goals. Citizens, already weary from inflation and high taxes, are demanding more accountability and transparency.

Analysts point out that even if the jet leads to long-term cost savings, the optics of the acquisition remain poor. “This is not just about the money spent,” said one policy analyst. “It’s about the message it sends — that government officials are insulated from the realities facing ordinary Nigerians.”

Conclusion: Symbol of Disconnect Between Government and Citizens

Ultimately, the refurbished presidential jet has become a symbol of the widening gap between the political elite and the people they govern. At a time when Nigerians are calling for responsible leadership and economic justice, the Tinubu administration’s investment in aviation luxury sends a conflicting message.

Unless the government demonstrates a stronger commitment to transparency and cuts in high-level expenditure, public trust may continue to erode. Nigerians want to see a leadership that truly reflects the sacrifices they are being asked to make. For many, the jet’s return is less about national pride and more a reminder of broken promises.