President Tinubu Committed to leading by Example Slashes Government Expenses by 60% – Abayomi ODUNOWO.
In a move that is not only groundbreaking but also indicative of the commitment to fiscal responsibility, President Bola Tinubu has announced that his administration will be significantly reducing the expenditure of all official travels, both domestic and international, by a staggering 60 percent. This decision comes at a critical time when the country is grappling with economic challenges and the need for prudent management of resources.
For foreign trips, the President, Vice President, and First Lady will be accompanied by a significantly reduced entourage. Previously, the President was accompanied by unaccounted no of persons, while the Vice President and the First Lady were accompanied the same. However, under the new directive, the President will be accompanied by only 20 persons for international trips with the Vice President and the First Lady being allowed only a limited no of their original entourage, at 5 persons each for international trips. This reduction in numbers not only signals a commitment to cost-cutting but also reflects the importance of prioritizing the essential personnel needed for official travel.
On the local front, the President, Vice President, and First Lady will also see a significant reduction in the number of individuals accompanying them on official trips, the President will now be accompanied by 25 persons , the Vice President by 15 persons and the First Lady’s by 10 persons. This reduction in numbers reflects an understanding of the need for efficient and streamlined official travel arrangements within the country.
President Tinubu’s decision to slash the expenditure of all official travels by 60 percent is a bold and commendable move. It reflects a commitment to prudent management of government resources and a recognition of the need for fiscal discipline. By reducing the number of individuals accompanying government officials on official trips, President Tinubu is sending a clear message that the era of excess and wasteful spending is no longer acceptable.
The impact of this decision will be far-reaching. Not only will it lead to significant cost savings for the government, but it will also send a strong signal to the public that the administration is serious about governing with integrity and accountability. Furthermore, it will create a culture of efficiency within the government, where resources are used responsibly to achieve the objectives of official travel without unnecessary extravagance.
Furthermore, the reduction in the number of individuals accompanying government officials on official trips will also have practical benefits. With a smaller entourage, official travel arrangements are likely to be more streamlined and efficient, allowing for a greater focus on the objectives of the trip rather than the logistics of managing a large group of personnel. This will ultimately lead to more effective and productive official trips, with a greater emphasis on achieving tangible outcomes.
In conclusion, President Bola Tinubu’s decision to slash the expenditure of all official travels by 60 percent is a significant and commendable step towards responsible governance. By reducing the number of individuals accompanying government officials on official trips, the administration is setting a new standard for fiscal responsibility and efficiency. This move not only demonstrates a commitment to prudent management of resources but also sends a strong signal that excess and wasteful spending are no longer acceptable. As the administration continues to implement measures that promote accountability and transparency, it is clear that President Tinubu is laying the groundwork for a government that is committed to serving the people with integrity and efficiency.
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi ODUNOWO
National Chairman AATSG.
9th January, 2024.
