President Tinubu Imposes Temporary Ban on Public-Funded Foreign Trips for Government Officials

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President Bola Tinubu

By Caroline Ameh

President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive action to curb government spending by instituting a temporary ban on public-funded foreign trips for ministers and other government officials. The directive, conveyed through a memo from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is set to take effect on April 1, 2024.

In the memo dated March 12, President Tinubu highlighted concerns about the escalating costs associated with international travel amid Nigeria’s challenging economic circumstances. The ban, initially set for a period of 90 days, aims to streamline government expenditure without compromising essential functions.

“Mr. President has concerns about the rising cost of travel expenses borne by Ministries, Department and Agencies of Government as well as the growing need for Cabinet Members and heads of MDAs to focus on their respective mandates for effective service delivery,” the memo states.

According to the directive, exceptions to the ban may be granted for trips deemed “absolutely necessary.” However, all government officials planning public-funded international travel must obtain Presidential approval at least two weeks prior to the trip.

“This temporary measure is aimed at cost reduction in governance and intended as a cost-saving measure without compromising government functions,” the memo emphasizes.