Public Outcry Over Lavish Spending Under Tinubu Administration Amid Economic Hardship

The Bola Tinubu administration is facing public backlash following the purchase of a new presidential jet, costing over N150 billion, at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with a challenging economic environment and a persistent cost-of-living crisis. This decision has sparked anger among citizens who are questioning the government’s spending priorities.
In the past year, President Tinubu has urged Nigerians to endure the economic hardship resulting from his policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates. These measures have led to significant increases in commodity prices, contributing to the current inflation rate of 33%. Despite these appeals for austerity, the government appears to be making substantial expenditures, raising concerns about its commitment to addressing the economic struggles of the populace.
A Closer Look at the Costly Purchases
Presidential Jet
The government recently acquired an Airbus A330 to replace the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700(BBJ) purchased during Olusegun Obasanjo's presidency. The new aircraft reportedly cost over $100 million, a move that has drawn criticism for being insensitive to the economic conditions faced by Nigerians. Despite the National Assembly stating that it has yet to allocate funds for the purchase, the president has already utilized the jet for a trip to France. Senate President Godswill Akpabio has indicated a willingness to approve any necessary funds to finalize the acquisition.
Former minister Oby Ezekwesili voiced her disapproval during an appearance on Arise Television’s ‘Politics Today,’ questioning why the government would prioritize the purchase of a luxury aircraft amid widespread poverty and hunger.
Presidential Yacht
Last year, the government faced significant criticism over plans to purchase a presidential yacht, a proposal included in the 2023 supplementary budget of N2.17 trillion with an allocation of N5 billion. Due to public outcry, the National Assembly ultimately redirected these funds towards other expenses. However, sources suggest that the yacht had already arrived in Nigeria, although the government has neither confirmed nor denied this claim. The House of Representatives is reportedly pressuring the Navy to return the yacht to its vendor.
N21 Billion Residence for the Vice President
Another controversial expenditure under the Tinubu administration is the reported N21 billion spent on completing the official residence for Vice President Kashim Shettima. Despite public opposition, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike prioritized the completion of the residence, a decision that has drawn criticism given the many other infrastructure projects requiring attention.
N160 Million Vehicles for National Assembly Members
Members of the National Assembly have also received luxury vehicles amid the current economic difficulties. The House of Representatives members were provided with Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) believed to cost N160 million each. Although these vehicles are officially designated for use during the current administration, some lawmakers reportedly opted to receive cash in lieu of the cars.
N90 Billion Hajj Subsidy
The government’s decision to spend N90 billion on subsidizing the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia has also come under scrutiny. The devaluation of the naira led to a significant increase in the cost of Hajj, prompting the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to adjust fees multiple times. The government intervened with a subsidy, but this funding is now under investigation by anti-corruption agencies, leading to the arrest of NAHCON Chairman Jalal Arabi and other officials over alleged mismanagement.
N1.5 Billion for Office of the First Lady Vehicles
The Office of the First Lady has also been a focal point of criticism, particularly due to the perceived overreach of some of its occupants and the associated costs. The government proposed N1.5 billion in the 2023 supplementary budget for new vehicles for the Office of the First Lady, a move that has sparked further debate about spending priorities.
As these controversies continue to unfold, many Nigerians are calling for greater accountability and more prudent use of public funds, particularly in light of the country’s current economic challenges.
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