
The federal government's decision to sell three ageing presidential jets is a strategic move aimed at reducing excessive spending on fleet maintenance. This step comes after a recommendation from the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence to purchase two new aircraft for the president and vice president. The Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, led by Shehu Buba Umar, also supports this recommendation.
Currently, the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF), managed by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), consists of six airplanes and four helicopters. This includes a Boeing 737 Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), a Gulfstream G550, a Gulfstream GV, two Falcon 7x, and one Challenger CL605. Insiders have disclosed that at least half of these aircraft are unserviceable or failing, making them more burdensome to maintain.
To address this, the government has decided to sell the president’s designated Boeing 737 BBJ, one Gulfstream, and a Falcon 7x, which will effectively halve the current fleet. JetHQ, a US-based airline marketer, has been appointed as the broker for the sale. JetHQ is responsible for valuing and marketing the aircraft under an exclusive marketing agreement. The proceeds from the sale will be used to procure a new jet, as the government cannot afford to buy two new aircraft simultaneously.
JetHQ has already submitted three bids from potential buyers to the NSA: two offers for the BBJ and one for the Falcon X. However, the NSA is seeking a better deal before finalizing any sale. Zakari Mijinyawa, the NSA's spokesman, confirmed the ongoing disposal process without providing further details.
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