Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ In a decisive move aimed at curbing government expenditures, President Bola Tinubu has ordered a reduction in the size of Nigeria’s official delegation to the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) set to take place in New York this September. This directive was unveiled by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, during a one-day retreat in Abuja organized by the State House management for heads of government agencies under its jurisdiction.
The retreat, themed “Strengthening Institutional Mechanism for Effective Delivery,” served as a platform for Gbajabiamila to communicate the President’s instructions, which were further detailed in a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity. The statement, titled “President Tinubu Directs That Only Authorized Officials with Business at UNGA Should Attend,” underscored the administration’s commitment to reducing governance costs.
Gbajabiamila highlighted that the decision to limit the delegation size is a direct response to recent public demands for a reduction in government spending. He emphasized that past UNGA sessions often saw large Nigerian delegations, with some attendees using the event as an opportunity for personal business rather than official duties. “This time, we will be strict,” Gbajabiamila warned, adding, “If you have no business at the UN General Assembly, do not step foot in America.”
This move aligns with President Tinubu’s broader agenda to ensure prudent management of national resources and reinforce the administration’s dedication to efficient governance. The Chief of Staff also hinted at forthcoming policy changes designed to enhance service delivery within government operations, indicating that the new policy direction will soon be tested during the UNGA session.
Gbajabiamila urged all government agencies under the State House’s supervision to strictly adhere to statutes, regulations, and presidential directives, stressing the importance of compliance for the success of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He highlighted the necessity of coordination and collaboration among these agencies to meet the expectations of the Nigerian people.
In conclusion, Gbajabiamila affirmed that the retreat would be an ongoing initiative, recognizing that governance is a dynamic process requiring continuous adaptation. He also called on agency heads to lead by example, ensuring adherence to laws and policies that enhance good governance and promote excellence in public service.
