Skip to main content Skip to footer 
Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to purchase a new presidential jet, describing it as a “failure in leadership” given the widespread hunger and economic hardship currently affecting many Nigerians.
The presidency recently announced the acquisition of a new Airbus A330 to replace the aging Boeing B737-700, which was initially purchased under former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. Duke, while speaking on Channels TV’s *Inside Sources* program, argued that such an expense is inappropriate at a time when Nigerians are struggling to meet basic needs.
“There is no glamour in saying your people are going through hard times; it is a failure of your leadership,” Duke remarked. He urged President Tinubu to consider the welfare of the nation as he would his own family, implying that no responsible leader would indulge in luxury while the people they lead suffer.
Duke also addressed Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, stressing the need for accountability within security agencies. He called on President Tinubu to hold security leaders responsible for lapses in their areas of jurisdiction, advocating for consequences for poor performance.
In addition, Duke urged the President to focus on finding local solutions to the country’s economic issues, rather than relying on external bodies like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) or the World Bank, which he believes may not provide the most suitable remedies for Nigeria’s unique challenges.
