In recent years, several Nigerian state governors have been scrutinized for purchasing private jets during their tenures. These acquisitions have raised questions about fiscal responsibility, especially in the face of state financial challenges. Below are ten governors who made headlines for acquiring private jets while in office:

1. Peter Odili (Rivers State)
   Peter Odili made waves when he acquired two aircraft, including a Bombardier jet and an Augusta Westland air ambulance. This decision stirred significant debate over the cost, with many questioning the necessity of such a purchase in a state grappling with financial constraints…..CONTINUE READING

2. Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom State)
   Akpabio’s $45 million private jet purchase in 2011 was one of the most talked-about in Nigeria. Critics slammed the move, arguing that public funds should not be spent on luxury items, especially given the state’s financial situation.

3. James Ibori (Delta State)
   Delta State’s former governor, James Ibori, was involved in an offshore deal to acquire a Challenger jet. His actions were part of broader investigations into corruption during his time in office.

4. Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers State)
   Amaechi, another Rivers State governor, also faced scrutiny after acquiring a Bombardier jet in 2013 for approximately $45 million. This acquisition became controversial amidst concerns over the state’s financial stability.

5. Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom State)
   Emmanuel spent over ₦5 billion in maintaining a Bombardier Global 5000 jet. Critics pointed to this expense as a prime example of wasteful spending, considering the socio-economic challenges in the state.

6. Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto State)
   While specific details are less publicized, Tambuwal’s government reportedly acquired a private jet during his time in office, contributing to the overall trend of governors purchasing jets for personal or state use.

7. Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti State)
   Former Ekiti State governor, Fayemi, was reported to have spent millions of dollars on private jets. The decision sparked widespread criticism, especially as Ekiti struggled with its finances.

8. Nyesom Wike (Rivers State)
   Known for his lavish spending, Wike followed in his predecessors’ footsteps by acquiring a private jet. This move stirred further debate about the appropriateness of such extravagant purchases in a state with pressing public needs.

9. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State)
   Lawal, who served as Zamfara State’s governor, bought a private jet valued at $6.3 million, contributing to the growing trend of Nigerian governors spending on luxury aircraft while in office.

10. Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom State)
    Umo Eno, who assumed office in 2023, chose to sell a state-owned executive jet, a move praised for being fiscally responsible in the face of public demands for better state management.

These acquisitions highlight the increasing trend among Nigerian governors to invest in private jets, often sparking debates about the appropriateness of such purchases in light of state financial conditions and pressing public needs.

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