Senate President Godswill Akpabio has sparked reactions after revealing a challenge facing politicians preparing for the 2027 general elections.
Akpabio said politicians are finding it difficult to get enough private jets to hire for their campaign activities because of the growing demand for air travel in Nigeria.
He made the statement on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, while speaking during a Senate session where lawmakers discussed Nigeria’s aviation industry and the need to improve air travel between Nigeria and China.
According to him, the situation could become worse during the December festive period when more people travel across the country. He urged the Federal Government to look into the challenges facing local airlines and find ways to improve their services.
Akpabio explained that even private airline operators were struggling to meet the increasing demand, making it difficult for politicians to secure aircraft for campaign movements.
During the discussion, he also remembered the days of the country’s former national carrier, Nigerian Airways. He said the airline once had between 32 and 40 aircraft and operated flights to different destinations, including carrying pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
The Senate President questioned how Nigeria’s aviation industry moved from having such a fleet to its present situation.
His comments have drawn attention as political activities begin to build ahead of the 2027 elections. They have also raised conversations about the use of private jets by politicians while many Nigerians continue to face rising transportation costs.
Akpabio maintained that Nigeria needs a strong national airline to improve air travel and reduce the pressure on existing operators.
