On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed the United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, as part of Blinken’s ongoing tour of Africa. Blinken’s arrival was captured in a video showcasing the use of an armored Chevrolet Suburban SUV for his transportation.
The choice of the Chevrolet Suburban SUV for Blinken’s security transport is consistent with the practice of the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), which employs a fleet of these attack-resistant vehicles to shuttle important individuals.
The DSS, responsible for the safety and security of diplomatic personnel, had, in 2021, awarded a contract to GM Defense for the development of armored Suburban-based vehicles.
In the broader context, it is noteworthy that the U.S. President, akin to his Nigerian counterpart, utilizes specialized vehicles for secure transport. While the U.S. President opts for the renowned Cadillac ONE, also known as “the Beast,” the DSS relies on the robust and bulletproof Chevrolet Suburban SUVs for the secure movement of dignitaries.
The development contract awarded to GM Defense, valued at $36.4 million, involves the creation of purpose-built armored Suburbans. Under this agreement, GM Defense is set to produce 10 vehicles over the next two years, with each Suburban costing approximately $3.6 million.
The delivery of these vehicles to the DSS, the federal law enforcement and security arm, is scheduled in two phases, with the initial batch expected to be handed over in the coming spring. This initiative aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance security measures for diplomatic missions and high-profile individuals within the United States.