Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, has suggested that President Bola Tinubu needs to travel more to strengthen Nigeria’s international relationships.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Tuggar emphasized that the President does not travel as much as he should, stressing the importance of engaging with other world leaders.
Tuggar defended the President’s international trips, which have raised concerns among some Nigerians about the cost to taxpayers.
He argued that these travels are essential for fostering relationships with other nations and attracting investment to Nigeria.
As of May 2024, President Tinubu had spent around 96 days abroad since taking office in 2023, visiting countries like France, the United Kingdom, Kenya, the United States, and many more.
“This administration is still new. He was sworn in in 2023. In global terms, he is still a new President.
“He needs to interact with his colleagues, fellow heads of state, to be able to establish relationships, and you can see the fruits of these trips. Look at the benefits,” Tuggar explained.
The Minister highlighted the significant outcomes of such travels, referencing the $2 billion investment secured during the President’s visit to Brazil.
“In fact, we are not travelling enough. I should suggest that we should do more,” Tuggar added.
Addressing concerns about the costs of these trips, the Minister compared it to previous government expenditures, such as subsidies.
“Nigeria has the money. How much does travelling cost compared to the benefits? And how much does it cost when you’re comparing it to the things that the President has already addressed? How much were we wasting on fuel subsidy, electricity subsidy, and all those subsidies?” he questioned.
