President Bola Tinubu has imposed a ban on ministers, heads of agencies, and other government officials from undertaking publicly funded foreign trips. The ban, initially set for three months starting from April 1, 2024, was communicated in a letter dated March 12, 2024, signed by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and addressed to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Tinubu’s directive follows previous measures to streamline travel expenses, including reducing the number of delegates accompanying him on both domestic and international trips. He mandated that his delegation should not exceed 25 members for local travels and 20 for international trips. Furthermore, he required security arrangements at his destination to provide his protection instead of being accompanied by numerous security personnel from Abuja.
This decision was prompted by criticism faced during and after the twenty-eighth Conference of Parties (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates, which saw the participation of about 590 Nigerian officials. In response, the government clarified that funding was provided for only 422 individuals in the delegation.
The letter announcing the ban emphasized the President’s concerns about the escalating travel expenses incurred by government ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as the importance of cabinet members and heads of MDAs focusing on their core mandates for effective service delivery. Tinubu highlighted the need for responsible fiscal management, particularly in light of current economic challenges.
The temporary ban on publicly funded international trips is aimed at cost reduction in governance without compromising government functions. It requires government officials intending to embark on such trips to obtain presidential approval at least two weeks beforehand, with the condition that the trip is deemed absolutely necessary.
Overall, the ban underscores the administration’s commitment to prudent fiscal management and ensuring that public resources are utilized efficiently for the benefit of the nation.
