Nigeria : Tinubu suspends state-funded Foreign trips for ministers and government officials
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has announced a three-month ban, starting from April 1st, for ministers and other government officials wishing to travel abroad with public funds. According to him, the measure aims to reduce public spending on international travel.
This decision follows President Tinubu’s growing concerns about the escalating costs associated with such travels by officials. His chief of staff emphasized the necessity of this step as government travel expenses continue to rise.
Tinubu and his administration have faced criticism for their frequent international visits, notably sponsoring over 400 individuals to attend COP28 in Dubai last November, sparking outrage on social media.
Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu has made more than 15 trips abroad, often exceeding budgeted amounts for his travels, with expenses totaling 3.4 billion naira during the first half of his term. Faced with Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges and the imperative of prudent budget management, Tinubu’s administration sees this travel ban as a necessary measure.
The country is grappling with severe crises related to the cost of living, exacerbating widespread difficulties and discontent among the population. Under this upcoming ban, government representatives will only be allowed to travel abroad if deemed essential, subject to President Tinubu’s approval at least two weeks in advance. The goal is to ensure that officials prioritize their core responsibilities in delivering effective service.
However, Tinubu did not specify whether he would reduce his own foreign trips.
