President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant cost-cutting measure, directing a reduction in the size of official delegations for both foreign and domestic trips by up to 60%. The move is aimed at curbing wasteful spending and promoting fiscal prudence in government activities.
Presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale announced the new limits, detailing the impact on travels by the President, Vice President, First Lady, and other top government officials. For foreign trips, the delegation size for President Tinubu is now capped at 20 individuals, down from the previous 50. The First Lady’s entourage is restricted to five members, representing over a 60% reduction. The Vice President’s foreign delegation is limited to five, and his wife is also restricted to five members.
Regarding domestic trips within Nigeria, President Tinubu’s delegation is now limited to 25, the First Lady to 10, the Vice President to 15, and his wife to 10 members. Ministers are limited to four staff members on any foreign trip, while CEOs of government agencies are restricted to two.
The move is part of Tinubu’s commitment to reflecting fiscal prudence and efficiency in government operations, aligning them with the expectations of Nigerian citizens. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, will oversee the implementation of the directive and ensure compliance.
Ngelale emphasized that the cost-cutting exercise would apply to all government MDAs, including the President and Vice President’s offices. He warned that anyone violating the directive would face consequences, emphasizing President Tinubu’s determination to bring sanity to the management of public resources.
