Senate President Godswill Akpabio has disclosed that politicians preparing for the 2027 general elections are already facing difficulties securing private aircraft for campaign activities, according to Political Affairs Int.

Akpabio said the limited availability of chartered jets could complicate political movements as preparations for the elections gather momentum.

He made the disclosure on Tuesday during plenary while lawmakers considered a motion seeking a review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and China to improve direct flight operations for Nigerian airlines.

The Senate President also expressed concern over the capacity of domestic airlines to accommodate increased passenger traffic, particularly during the December festive period.

Akpabio urged the Federal Government to address challenges affecting local airline operators, arguing that the country needed stronger aviation capacity to meet growing travel demands.

He recalled the operations of the defunct Nigerian Airways, noting that the former national carrier once maintained a fleet of between 32 and 40 aircraft and operated flights to several destinations, including Saudi Arabia.

He questioned the decline of the country’s aviation industry and reiterated the need for a functional national carrier to strengthen Nigeria’s air transport sector.

“Common campaigns, we cannot see even private jets to hire,” Akpabio told lawmakers.