Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesman for the House of Representatives, has defended the proposed purchase of a new aircraft for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, asserting it is a national priority.
The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence recently recommended that the Federal Government acquire new aircraft for the president and vice president. This recommendation was included in a report following an investigation into the current state of the presidential air fleet. The call for new aircraft comes just months after three planes from the Presidential Air Fleet were slated for sale.
In an interview with Arise Television, Agbese responded to criticisms about the timing of this purchase amidst the economic struggles facing the nation. He stated, “We consider that to be for national security and the well-being of the country.”
Agbese emphasized the importance of ensuring the president’s safety, saying, “President Tinubu is a Nigerian citizen. It is our responsibility to ensure that every citizen is protected.” He added, “If the head (Tinubu) is sick, or something happens to the head, it will affect the rest of the whole nation.”
Agbese also clarified that the House of Representatives is not merely catering to the needs of top government officials but is equally concerned with the welfare of ordinary Nigerians. He highlighted the legislative efforts made to address citizens’ issues, noting, “We have discussed 675 motions that address their needs.”
He concluded by expressing the House’s commitment to national progress, stating, “We are not yet where we want to be as a nation because of our individual background. We want a Nigeria that will work for our people.”
The proposed purchase of the presidential jet remains a contentious topic, drawing mixed reactions from various sectors of society.
