President Tinubu Bans Government Officials from Foreign Trips, Citing Economic Concerns

President Bola Tinubu has announced a temporary ban on all public-funded international trips for government officials at all levels.

This ban, effective from April 1, 2024, for an initial period of three months, comes amidst growing concerns over the rising cost of travel expenses and the need for cabinet members and heads of MDAs to focus on their respective mandates for effective service delivery.

According to a letter signed by Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, addressed to George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the ban is part of President Tinubu’s responsible fiscal management approach in the face of the current economic challenges.

Any government official who wishes to embark on a public-funded international trip must seek and obtain the President’s approval at least two weeks before proceeding on the trip, which must be deemed absolutely necessary.

The President’s directive comes on the heels of a controversial workshop organized by the Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, for commissioners of finance of the 36 states of the federation and other government officials in London.

The workshop, held at Copthorne Tara Hotel, Kensington London, from March 4 to March 9, 2024, drew severe criticism from Nigerians as it took place at a time when the country’s economy is facing a major downturn.

As part of his cost-cutting strategy, President Tinubu had earlier reduced the size of his entourage to 20 and encouraged his team to do the same.

This move followed the backlash that followed the last Conference of Parties (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates.

President Tinubu’s decision to ban government officials from going on foreign trips on public funds underscores his commitment to reducing the cost of governance and addressing the current economic challenges.

By focusing on responsible fiscal management and ensuring that cabinet members and heads of MDAs concentrate on their respective mandates, the President is taking a bold step towards improving the country’s economic situation.