President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive limiting government officials’ attendance at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in New York. According to Presidential Spokesperson Ajuri Ngalale, the President aims to reduce the cost of governance and ensure prudent management of resources.
Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila disclosed the directive during a retreat for heads of government agencies in Abuja. He stated, “I just discussed with the President this afternoon. In the next few weeks, we are going to see a test of this policy during UNGA in New York.” Gbajabiamila emphasized that the administration is committed to reducing the cost of governance, saying, “If you have no business at the UN General Assembly, do not step foot in America, and this is a directive from Mr. President.”
The Chief of Staff urged agency heads to comply strictly, noting that the President is listening to Nigerians’ concerns and is committed to addressing them diligently. The retreat aimed to facilitate collaboration and coordination among government agencies, ensuring coherence in achieving President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Gbajabiamila stressed the importance of leading by example, ensuring compliance with statutes, laws, regulations, and policies designed to enhance governance. He emphasized, “We must demonstrate excellence in our compliance with the Public Procurement Act, Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria Act, the Finance Act, and various appropriation acts in operation.”
The retreat’s theme was “Strengthening Institutional Mechanism for Effective Delivery.” Gbajabiamila noted that governance is an evolving process requiring regular adjustments, and the retreat would be a continuous exercise. He encouraged State House management and agency chief executives to ensure compliance with civil service rules and scheme of service guidelines, particularly regarding recruitment, promotion, and presidential approvals.
The President’s directive demonstrates his commitment to prudent resource management and reducing the cost of governance. By limiting attendance at the UNGA meeting, the administration aims to ensure that only necessary officials attend, preventing individuals from using the opportunity for personal business.
