President Bola Tinubu’s administration faces growing criticism over its extravagant spending, including the purchase of a new presidential jet and other luxury items, at a time when Nigerians are urged to endure economic hardships. These actions appear to contradict the president’s earlier rhetoric during a press chat where he boasted about his friend, who once owned five Rolls-Royces but now drives a Honda to adapt to current realities.
One of the administration’s most controversial moves is the purchase of a new Airbus A330 presidential jet, valued at over N150 billion. The luxury aircraft replaces an older model from the Obasanjo era, but its acquisition has been widely condemned as insensitive amid soaring inflation and a cost-of-living crisis. Critics have highlighted the inconsistency between the government’s actions and the president’s public admonition for Nigerians to embrace sacrifices.
Similarly, the procurement of a presidential yacht for N5 billion, the completion of a N21 billion residence for Vice President Kashim Shettima, and the purchase of N160 million SUVs for lawmakers have further fueled public outrage. These expenditures starkly contrast the austerity measures Tinubu often promotes.
In a widely publicized statement, President Tinubu shared the story of his affluent friend who downgraded from owning multiple Rolls-Royces to driving a Honda, presenting it as a lesson in adapting to economic realities. He urged Nigerians to exercise patience and accept the sacrifices required to rebuild the nation. However, critics argue that the president has failed to reflect this ethos within his administration.
The government’s N90 billion subsidy for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage has also come under fire. While intended to ease the burden of increased pilgrimage costs, the subsidy is now the subject of corruption investigations, further denting the administration’s credibility.
The inclusion of N1.5 billion in the supplementary budget for vehicles for the First Lady’s Office has also been criticized as excessive, especially as the office plays a largely ceremonial role.
The gap between the administration’s lavish spending and its calls for austerity has eroded public trust. Citizens have questioned why leaders are not leading by example, especially when inflation stands at 33% and millions of Nigerians struggle to make ends meet.
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Analysts note that Tinubu’s administration risks alienating the public by perpetuating a lifestyle at odds with the sacrifices it demands from ordinary Nigerians. The president’s narrative about his friend adapting to leaner times resonates with many, but actions speak louder than words.
As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges, calls for transparency, prudence, and genuine leadership have grown louder. Critics insist that the administration must align its spending habits with its messages of sacrifice and austerity to regain public confidence.
