Former Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Chief Peter Ameh, has strongly criticized the Nigerian government’s reported plans to acquire an additional presidential jet, describing the move as reckless given the country’s current economic struggles.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Ameh said it was unacceptable for the government to contemplate spending N150 billion on another aircraft when, according to him, there are already “eight extra” in the presidential fleet.
“You can’t be buying a private jet for N150 billion when we have eight of them extra,” Ameh stated. “It is tone-deaf and shows a disconnection from the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.”
His remarks come at a time when inflation remains stubbornly high, unemployment continues to plague millions, and food insecurity affects households nationwide. He noted that such lavish spending sends the wrong message and erodes public trust in leadership.
Ameh accused the current administration of neglecting key sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens. He lamented that capital expenditure, which funds infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture, is grossly underperforming, while recurrent expenses often linked to the comfort of public officials are fully funded.
“Our capital expenditure is underperforming at below 30%, yet recurrent expenditure including things like luxury vehicles, renovations, and jets is performing at 100%,” Ameh said. “This is not sustainable. This is not leadership.”
The former IPAC boss stressed that true leadership requires sacrifice, especially in difficult economic times. He argued that rather than adding to the presidential fleet, the government should redirect such funds to projects that stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve living conditions for citizens.
He also pointed to the example of leaders like Peter Obi, who, according to him, have demonstrated the ability to manage resources prudently and cut down on waste. Ameh suggested that Nigeria urgently needs leaders who can prioritize the welfare of the people over personal luxury.
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