In a bid to curb excessive spending and enhance service delivery, President Bola Tinubu has mandated a temporary halt on all publicly funded foreign trips for Federal Government officials, effective April 1, 2024.

The directive, conveyed through a circular dated March 12, 2024, from the State House to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, applies to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the government.

This decision follows the recent approval of the full implementation of the 12-year-old Steve Oronsaye Report, which recommended the consolidation of government agencies and commissions to streamline governance costs.

President Tinubu, who had previously reduced travel delegations for official trips, emphasized the need for MDAs’ heads to focus on effective service delivery amidst economic challenges. The suspension of public-funded foreign trips aims to address the rising costs of travel while ensuring governance functions remain uncompromised.

According to the circular, officials planning international trips must now seek presidential approval at least two weeks in advance, demonstrating the necessity of such travel.

The move underscores the administration’s commitment to responsible fiscal management and cost-saving measures without compromising essential government functions.