Federal Government Dismisses Claims of Controversial Presidential Yacht for Tinubu

Government Denies Yacht for Tinubu’s Comfort

The Federal Government has addressed the controversy surrounding the inclusion of a presidential yacht in the 2023 Supplementary Budget.

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, clarified that the yacht was not intended solely for the comfort of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ridiculing the Mischaracterization

Minister Bagudu emphasized the absurdity of the notion that the expenditure for the presidential yacht was allocated for President Tinubu’s leisure.

He pointed out that the controversy stemmed from a mischaracterization of the ship’s purpose as described by the Navy.

Budget and President Tinubu’s Modesty

Bagudu highlighted that the 2023 Supplementary Budget had a total of 2.2 trillion Naira, with 95% of it being acceptable. In response to the allegations, he commended President Tinubu’s modesty, citing that personal comfort was not a priority for him.

He shared insights into Tinubu’s humble lifestyle and his unpretentious living arrangements.

President Tinubu’s Humble Background

Before assuming the presidency, President Tinubu resided in a three-bedroom apartment in Abuja. He has consistently exhibited a modest and unassuming way of life.

The suggestion that the budget included an allocation for his comfort was characterized as “ridiculous.”

Scrapping of the Controversial Yacht

The House of Representatives took action by removing the controversial presidential yacht from the supplementary budget.

This move came after the budget stirred controversy and led to discussions about its intended purpose.

Presidential Yacht for the Nigerian Navy

The presidency also provided clarification, indicating that the 5 billion Naira yacht in the budget was intended for the Nigerian Navy’s use, rather than for President Tinubu’s personal enjoyment.

This clarification aimed to dispel any misconceptions about the yacht’s purpose.

Resolution of the Controversy

The government’s response and the actions taken by the House of Representatives and the presidency are seen as steps toward resolving the controversy surrounding the presidential yacht.

The budget minister’s statements have underscored the focus on transparent and appropriate allocation of resources in the supplementary budget.

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