In a significant policy shift, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has introduced a three-month moratorium on publicly funded foreign travels for ministers and other government officials, effective from April 1. The decision, articulated by the President's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, stems from pressing concerns over the "rising cost of travel expenses" incurred by public servants. This measure is seen as a critical step towards addressing Nigeria's burgeoning fiscal challenges and promoting responsible governance.
President Tinubu, who took office in May, has faced criticism for the frequency of his foreign travels. Despite his international engagements, the President has been scrutinized for exceeding the allocated travel budget significantly. According to reports by the Nigerian newspaper Punch, citing GovSpend—a civic technology platform that monitors government expenditure—President Tinubu's travel expenses in the first six months of his term surpassed the 2023 budget by 36%, amounting to at least 3.4 billion Naira ($2.2 million; £1.8 million).
This new travel ban is part of President Tinubu's broader efforts to mitigate public backlash over government spending amidst one of Nigeria's most severe cost-of-living crises in decades. The economic hardship has led to widespread discontent and calls for more prudent fiscal management. In response, earlier this year, the President announced a reduction of about 60% in the size of the official travel delegation, which also affected his entourage.
Under the new regulation, government officials will require the President's express approval for any foreign trip considered "absolutely necessary," with requests to be made at least two weeks in advance. Chief of Staff Gbajabiamila emphasized that the temporary halt is aimed at ensuring officials concentrate on their domestic duties, thereby enhancing service delivery to the Nigerian people.
The initiative raises questions about whether President Tinubu will apply the same restrictions to his travel itinerary. His administration has defended his overseas trips as essential for addressing the economic challenges the country faces. However, with the implementation of the travel ban, the government signals its commitment to fiscal responsibility and addressing the needs of its citizens.
As Nigeria braces for the impact of this policy, the move is widely regarded as a test of the administration's resolve to curb unnecessary expenditures and refocus on domestic challenges. The success of this ban could set a precedent for future governance practices in Nigeria and potentially other nations grappling with similar fiscal and economic issues.
