President Bola Tinubu today departed from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 11:45 a.m. for a three-state working visit and holiday tour. The President travels aboard the Boeing 737 Business Jet (tail number 5N-FGT), a 20-year-old aircraft acquired in 2005 during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo for $43 million.
This jet, previously listed for sale in July 2025 as part of federal cost-cutting initiatives, returned to service after receiving low offers around $10 million and undergoing partial refurbishment.
The tour commences in Borno State, where President Tinubu arrived at Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri at 12:58 p.m. In Maiduguri, the President will inaugurate key infrastructure projects executed by the Governor Babagana Zulum administration in collaboration with the Federal Government, including the upgraded international airport and other developments.
He will also attend the wedding fatiha of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno State Governor and Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, at the Maiduguri Central Mosque within the Shehu of Borno’s palace.
Following Borno, President Tinubu proceeds to Bauchi State for a condolence visit to the state government and the family of the late renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who passed away on November 27, 2025, at the age of 101.
The tour concludes in Lagos State, where the President will spend the Yuletide holidays. As Guest of Honour, he will attend the Eyo Festival on December 27 at Tafawa Balewa Square, honoring notable figures including his late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, and former Lagos Governors Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Chief Michael Otedola.
"This multi-state engagement underscores President Tinubu's commitment to fostering federal-state partnerships, honoring cultural traditions, and supporting national development," said Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. "The itinerary blends official duties with personal and festive observances, reflecting the administration's focus on unity and progress."
Enhanced security measures, including tactical teams from the Borno State Police Command, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other agencies, ensure a smooth visit in Maiduguri.
The Presidency remains dedicated to transparent governance and efficient resource management, as demonstrated by the ongoing utilization of existing assets like the presidential jet.