Senate President Godswill Akpabio has raised concerns over the difficulty politicians are facing in securing private jets for campaign trips ahead of the 2027 general elections, blaming limited aircraft availability and rising demand.
Akpabio made the remarks during Tuesday’s Senate plenary while lawmakers debated a motion seeking a review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and China.
He attributed the challenge to the inability of private airline operators to meet the growing demand for air travel, particularly as political activities gather momentum ahead of the elections.
Speaking during the debate, the Senate President also drew attention to the pressure expected during the December festive period, urging the Federal Government to intervene in the challenges confronting domestic airline operators.
“Watch December and the confusion. Even the private airlines cannot handle it. Common campaigns, we cannot see even private jets to hire. We should at least be able to urge the federal government to look into that to alleviate the plight of airlines,” he said.
The Senate President also recalled the operations of the defunct Nigerian Airways, which he said once maintained between 32 and 40 aircraft.
He noted that the airline operated flights to different destinations and transported Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for religious journeys.
Akpabio further expressed concern over the decline of the country’s aviation industry and called for the establishment of a functional national carrier capable of representing Nigeria internationally. He questioned how the country moved from having a sizable national airline fleet to its present aviation situation.
However, the remarks came during deliberations on a motion sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North, while calling on the Federal Government to renegotiate the aviation agreement between Nigeria and China.
Noting that, the proposal seeks to create opportunities for Nigerian airlines to operate direct flights to China, potentially improving international connectivity and reducing travel difficulties. The motion also highlighted the importance of strengthening the country’s aviation industry and expanding opportunities for domestic carriers.
Akpabio’s comments come as political parties and prospective candidates prepare for the 2027 general elections, with campaign activities expected to increase demand for air transportation across the country.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
