The Senate reaffirmed its commitment on Thursday to approve funds for new presidential jets for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, dismissing anticipated blackmail attempts. President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, made this clear during an emergency session to extend the 2023 supplementary budget implementation.
Reports had suggested that President Tinubu sought funds to replace faulty presidential jets. Akpabio addressed these reports, stating that the National Assembly won’t succumb to blackmail, particularly in light of recent global aviation incidents.
“Recent tragic events, like the plane crashes in Iran and Malawi, underscore the importance of ensuring presidential aircraft safety,” Akpabio emphasized, stressing the proactive stance of the National Assembly.
The Senate’s decision follows an extension of the supplementary budget implementation until December 31st, 2024, aligning with President Tinubu’s request.
