Former Presidential Jet Hits the Market: Obasanjo-Era Boeing 737-700 Up for Sale

Blast from the Past: A Royal Ride

In a move that’s turning heads, the federal government of Nigeria has placed its iconic Boeing 737-700 business jet on the market. This beauty first took to the skies during the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo and has been serving distinguished guests ever since. With its shimmering exterior and luxurious interior, it’s no wonder that this aircraft is making headlines as it prepares for a new chapter in Switzerland.

A Historic Acquisition

The aircraft was acquired way back in 2005 for a whopping $43 million. Fast forward to today, and it embodies two decades of aviation history, navigating through numerous flights that carried dignitaries and foreign officials alike. It’s quite the story for a jet that many hoped would become a legacy for the country. However, recent transitions in the administration, particularly the shift to a refurbished Airbus A330-200 by President Bola Tinubu last August, have prompted this jet listing.

Why Is It for Sale?

So, what’s the reasoning behind selling this jet? With persistent economic concerns and public scrutiny looming over the government's finances, unloading costly assets like the Boeing 737-700 makes logical sense. The current administration seems keen on making prudent financial decisions aimed at reducing government expenditure and shifting towards more gradual means of transport while maintaining operational efficiency. The move to list this aircraft on the market, managed by AMAC Aerospace in Basel, Switzerland, presents an opportunity for interested buyers to snag a piece of Nigerian history.

According to sources from a US-based aircraft listing site, The Controller, this Boeing BBJ jet has undergone thorough inspections, ensuring it’s in good working condition for its next owner. The decision to sell not only reflects current economic pressures but also highlights the government's willingness to adapt to the needs of the times.

As we watch the development of this sale, it's worth pondering what lies ahead for this bold aircraft. Will it find a new home with a global business mogul, or perhaps become the star of a private aviation collection? One thing is for sure—this isn’t just any jet; it’s a symbol of past leadership and opulence, and wherever it ends up, it will certainly continue to soar high.