President Bola Tinubu has taken a decisive step towards shrinking Nigeria’s government expenditure by issuing a directive that only government officials with direct relevance to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) should travel as part of Nigeria’s delegation.
In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, it was revealed that the move is part of a broader effort to curtail the cost of governance in the country.
The President has ordered the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to halt the processing of visas for all government officials who cannot provide proof of direct participation in UNGA’s official activities.
“To prevent any fraudulent practices, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria has been duly informed about the official visa processing guidelines, while Nigeria’s Permanent Mission in New York has been directed to deny accreditation to any government official who is not listed on the protocol lists provided by the approving authority,” the statement read.
Under this presidential directive, all Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have been mandated to ensure that the number of aides and staff accompanying officials included in the UNGA delegation is limited.
“During the final verification process, any excesses or irregularities in this regard will be rectified,” the President emphasized.
Tinubu highlighted the importance of aligning government officials and expenses with the prudence and sacrifice being demonstrated by well-meaning Nigerians across the nation.
NAN
