President Tinubu Orders Reduction of Nigeria’s Delegation to the United Nations General Assembly

 In a bid to ensure judicious management of resources and reduce administrative costs, President Bola Tinubu has ordered a significant reduction in the size of Nigeria's delegation to the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States.

This directive was disclosed by the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, during a retreat for heads of government agencies under the State House's supervision. The announcement was made public through a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Advisor to the President on Media & Publicity.

Gbajabiamila emphasized that only authorized personnel with specific business at the 79th session of the UNGA should be included in the delegation. This move responds to growing calls for a reduction in governance costs, especially concerning international engagements.

In the statement, Gbajabiamila highlighted the importance of government functions being guided by statutes, regulations, policy decisions, and presidential directives. He also hinted at upcoming policy announcements aimed at ensuring efficient service delivery in government operations.

“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. During recent protests, there were talks about a reduction in the cost of governance. Everyone is waiting to see if Nigeria, as in the past, will send the ‘largest delegation’ to UNGA. From experience, we know that some individuals use the opportunity of such international meetings to go about their personal businesses. I have received a directive from Mr. President that this time, we will be strict. If you have no business at the UN General Assembly, do not step foot in America, and this is a directive from Mr. President.”

Gbajabiamila also addressed concerns about individuals leveraging international gatherings for personal gain, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to ensuring that only relevant personnel attend the UNGA.

During the retreat, Gbajabiamila underscored the importance of collaboration and compliance among government agencies to achieve the goals of President Tinubu's "Renewed Hope Agenda." He urged agency leaders to lead by example by adhering to statutes, laws, and regulations related to financial reporting, procurement, and civil service requirements.

The retreat, expected to be an ongoing exercise, aims to foster cooperation and ensure consistency in the implementation of government goals and policies.