IN response to mounting concerns over escalating travel expenses, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has declared a three-month moratorium on publicly funded foreign trips for government officials. The decision, slated to commence on April 1, is a proactive step aimed at reining in expenditures in light of Nigeria’s economic challenges.
According to Tinubu’s chief of staff, the president’s decision was driven by ‘concerns about the rising cost of travel expenses’ by public officials. Femi Gbajabiamila, the chief of staff, emphasised the necessity of prudent fiscal management amidst Nigeria’s prevailing economic difficulties. He stated, ‘The halt on travel will ensure that government officials focus on their respective mandates for effective service delivery.’
The move comes in the wake of mounting criticism directed at the administration’s extensive international travel engagements. Notably, the sponsorship of over 400 individuals to attend the COP28 climate conference in Dubai last November drew significant public backlash. Since taking office in May 2023, President Tinubu has embarked on more than 15 foreign trips.
Reports indicate that the president’s travel expenditure surged to at least 3.4 billion naira ($2.2 million; £1.8 million) in the first six months of his tenure, surpassing the allocated budget for 2023 by 36 percent. This overspending, highlighted by GovSpend, a civic tech platform tracking government expenditures, underscores the urgency of implementing cost-saving measures.
Gbajabiamila stressed, ‘The ban will cut costs amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management.’ The decision, however, raises questions regarding President Tinubu’s future travel activities. Despite defending his trips as vital for addressing economic issues, his travel patterns continue to face scrutiny from critics.
As the ban takes effect, government officials will only be permitted to undertake foreign trips deemed ‘absolutely necessary,’ subject to President Tinubu’s approval at least two weeks in advance. The restriction seeks to ensure that officials remain focused on their core responsibilities amidst Nigeria’s economic turmoil.