Tinubu govt outs presidential jet up for sale in Switzerland

In a move aimed at curbing government spending and boosting transparency, the Nigerian government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially listed its nearly two-decade-old Boeing 737-700 Business Jet (BBJ) for sale in Switzerland.

The aging aircraft, long a symbol of presidential mobility, is currently undergoing inspection and sale preparations at AMAC Aerospace in Basel, Switzerland, a reputable aviation firm that also assisted in the recent acquisition of a new Airbus A330 for the presidential fleet.

This development marks a significant shift in the management of Nigeria’s air assets, especially as the Tinubu administration comes under increasing public pressure to reduce government expenses and adopt a more austere fiscal approach.

Originally acquired in 2005 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, the jet has been the mainstay of presidential air travel for nearly two decades. Since delivery, it has logged just under 4,000 flight hours and 1,881 landings.

The aircraft’s interior includes a five-zone layout that accommodates 33 passengers and eight crew members. Amenities include a private bedroom with shower, VIP office, conference and dining area, and both first- and business-class seating. It is also equipped with Ka-band internet and modern avionics such as ADS-B Out, CPDLC, and FANS 1/A to meet international safety and communication standards.

In July 2024, the presidency took delivery of an Airbus ACJ330-200, now registered as 5N-FGA. The wide-body aircraft, which was refurbished after repossession, is now the official presidential jet. It features a bedroom suite, office area, and a combination of premium and economy seating.

A malfunction on a previous flight to Saudi Arabia reportedly raised concerns in the National Assembly over the BBJ’s reliability and growing maintenance costs.

Despite undergoing partial refurbishment in July 2024—including upgraded first-class seats, new carpeting, and C1-C2 inspections—the government has opted to decommission the jet and offer it for sale.

According to officials, the aircraft has been consistently stored in hangars and tracked under a professional maintenance system. However, it is not enrolled in any engine maintenance program, and both CFM56-7BE engines are listed as “on condition,” meaning they lack guaranteed performance coverage.

Neither the asking price nor a specific sale timeline has been disclosed by AMAC Aerospace or the Nigerian government.