Dino Melaye, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticised the size of Nigeria’s Presidential Air Fleet, describing the development as inappropriate given the country’s economic difficulties.
Melaye also claimed that the Nigerian Air Force did not receive any new aircraft during the whole of 2025, despite the reported expansion of the fleet used by the presidency.
The former Kogi West lawmaker expressed his concerns in a post published on his 𝕏 account, where he questioned the decision to add more aircraft to the presidential fleet under President Bola Tinubu.
According to Melaye, the reported acquisition of five additional aircraft within less than four years represents an unprecedented increase. He argued that such spending was difficult to justify in a country where many citizens are struggling with economic hardship.
The politician listed the aircraft as a newly acquired Bombardier Global 7500, a Pilatus PC-24, an Airbus A330 and two Gulfstream G500 jets.
He questioned the rationale behind maintaining such an extensive fleet while Nigerians continue to face challenges associated with poverty, rising living costs and other economic pressures.
Melaye further alleged that three of the aircraft carry Nigerian registration numbers beginning with “5N”. He claimed that the remaining two aircraft were obtained through leases from a private company, although the alleged terms and financial details of those arrangements have not been made public.
His criticism comes amid wider political disagreements over government expenditure and the management of public resources under the current administration.
Beyond the issue of the presidential aircraft, Melaye also spoke about efforts by opposition parties to establish a stronger political alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During an interview with Arise Television, he disclosed that discussions among opposition groups were continuing, with several prominent political figures reportedly participating in the process.
Melaye specifically mentioned Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and Donald Duke of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), saying both politicians had indicated an interest in discussions aimed at bringing opposition forces together.
He expressed confidence that a broad coalition could emerge before the 2027 elections and challenge Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Melaye acknowledged that achieving complete unity among all opposition parties might prove difficult. However, he maintained that securing the support of most opposition groups would be sufficient to mount a serious challenge against the ruling party.
He also dismissed concerns about the APC’s extensive political structure, which includes governors, lawmakers and party officials across the country.
According to him, the strength of the ruling party’s political machinery would not necessarily translate into electoral victory because, in his assessment, many Nigerians were already dissatisfied with the government.
Melaye cited economic hardship and insecurity as some of the issues he believes could influence voters during the next election.
He argued that opposition parties would have little difficulty convincing voters because, according to him, Nigerians are already prepared to reject the APC at the polls.
Melaye further alleged that some governors were not fully committed to Tinubu’s political ambitions and claimed that the president was aware of the growing opposition against his administration.
He described the APC’s efforts to maintain its political dominance as an indication of concern ahead of the 2027 contest, insisting that the opposition’s chances would continue to improve as discussions toward a coalition progress.
