In a decisive move to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and fiscal responsibility, President Bola Tinubu has announced a temporary ban on public-funded foreign trips for senior government officials. The ban, effective from April 1st, 2024, is part of a series of measures aimed at easing the pressure on the Nigerian naira and curbing excessive government expenditure.
The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, stated that the decision was taken in light of the “current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management”. The directive restricts ministers, heads of agencies, and other government officials from embarking on overseas travel funded by the public purse unless deemed absolutely necessary and approved by the President at least two weeks in advance.
This policy comes after criticism of the administration’s frequent foreign trips, including the controversial sponsorship of over 400 individuals to the COP28 climate conference in Dubai last November. President Tinubu, who has made more than 15 foreign trips since his inauguration in May 2023, has faced scrutiny over the 3.4 billion naira spent on travel in the first six months of his presidency, which is 36% more than the budgeted amount for 2023.
The ban is seen as President Tinubu’s latest attempt to counter public backlash and demonstrate a commitment to addressing the nation’s cost-of-living crisis. While the President has not indicated whether he will reduce his own trips, his administration defends his international engagements as crucial for addressing economic challenges and advancing national interests.
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