By Milcah Tanimu

In a move aimed at curbing excessive spending in governance, President Bola Tinubu has directed a temporary ban on public-funded foreign trips for ministers, heads of agencies, and other government officials. The directive, conveyed in a letter from his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, will take effect from April 1, 2024, and last for an initial period of three months.

Tinubu expressed concerns over the escalating costs of travel expenses borne by various government departments and the need for officials to prioritize their mandates for effective service delivery amidst current economic challenges. The ban is intended as a cost-saving measure without compromising government functions.

Under the new directive, government officials planning public-funded international trips must obtain presidential approval at least two weeks before their departure. Such trips are expected to be deemed absolutely necessary to receive approval.

The memo also urged the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to disseminate the directive to all ministries, departments, and agencies of the government.

By implementing this temporary ban, Tinubu seeks to promote responsible fiscal management and ensure that government resources are utilized efficiently.