‘We No Longer Find Private Jets to Hire’ — Akpabio Laments Difficulty Securing Aircraft for 2027 Campaigns

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has lamented the difficulty politicians are facing in securing private jets for campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Akpabio made the remarks during plenary on Tuesday, November 3, while lawmakers debated a motion seeking a review of Nigeria’s Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with China.

Using the December festive period to illustrate the pressure on the aviation sector, the Senate President said private airlines were struggling to meet demand, making it difficult for politicians to secure aircraft for campaign trips.

“Watch December and the confusion. Even the private airlines cannot handle it. Common campaigns, we cannot see even private jets to hire,” he said.

He urged the Federal Government to look into the challenges facing domestic airline operators, arguing that improved capacity would help ease pressure on the aviation sector.

Akpabio also called for the revival of a Nigerian-owned national carrier, saying the country needed an airline capable of flying the national flag and serving domestic and international routes.

He recalled the defunct Nigerian Airways, which he said once operated between 32 and 40 aircraft and transported Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

“We used to have a plane in those days carrying people to Saudi Arabia and all that. At the time, Nigerian Airways had about 32 planes on ground, about 40, going from one place to the other. So, how did we get here?” he asked.

The debate followed a motion sponsored by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North, calling for the renegotiation of the Nigeria-China air services agreement to enable Nigerian airlines to operate direct flights to China.

Monguno argued that direct air connections could reduce travel time, strengthen trade and improve supply-chain efficiency while limiting foreign exchange outflows associated with international travel.

The Senate subsequently urged the Ministry of Aviation to pursue a review of the agreement, with the relevant committees expected to examine the matter.

Akpabio’s comments have brought renewed attention to the capacity of Nigeria’s aviation industry as political parties and prospective candidates prepare for the 2027 elections.