President Bola Tinubu has mandated that only authorized government officials with relevant business at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York should attend the event.
This directive was revealed by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Saturday during a one-day retreat in Abuja organized by the State House management for heads of government agencies under its supervision.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Gbajabiamila conveyed that Tinubu has ordered a reduction in Nigeria’s official delegation to UNGA.
The decision to streamline the delegation for the 79th session of UNGA in September aligns with the administration’s commitment to prudent resource management and reducing the cost of governance.
The Chief of Staff emphasized the need for strict compliance and assured that the President is attentive to the concerns of Nigerians and is dedicated to addressing them diligently.
He said, ”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 reduction in 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.”
On the retreat, Honourable Gbajabiamila noted that it will facilitate collaboration and coordination among government agencies, particularly those under the direct supervision of the State House.
He said the retreat would be a continuous exercise, as governance is an evolving process that requires regular adjustments.
The Chief of Staff also urged the State House management and chief executives of agencies under its supervision to lead by example by ensuring compliance with statutes, laws, regulations, and various policies designed to enhance governance.
He added, ”The idea is to ensure coherence as we jointly work together to achieve the objectives of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
”Coordination is not just a choice but a necessity for the government to succeed and for us to meet the expectations of the Nigerian people.
”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.
”Compliance with the civil service rules and the scheme of service guidelines, especially regarding recruitment, promotion and presidential approvals is also non-negotiable.”
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