The Federal Government of Nigeria has suspended all public-funded foreign trips by government officials nationwide.
The directive which was given by the Chief-Of-Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila on behalf of the President will take effect from the 1st of April, and is expected to last 3 months.
According to the document, signed by Mr Gbajabiamila, all public-funded foreign trips by government officials must seek and obtain Presidential approval at least 2 weeks prior to the date of such trips.
Gbajabiamila also explained that only trips deemed to be absolutely necessary will receive such Presidential approval.
The Chief-of-staff noted that the directive was necessary because Mr President is concerned about the rising cost of travel expenses borne by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government while also pointing out the growing need for cabinet members and heads of MDAs to focus on their mandates so as to ensure effective service delivery.
The Presidential aide stated that the directive was necessitated by the current economic situation in the country and the need to cut costs of governance without compromising government functions.
“Considering the current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management, I am writing to communicate Mr President’s directive to place a temporary ban on all public funded international trips for all federal government officials at all levels, for an initial period of three (3) months from 1st April 2024.
“This temporary measure is aimed at cost reduction in governance and intended as a cost saving measure without compromising government functions.” He wrote.
