Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has implemented restrictions on the number of aides accompanying him during international trips, responding to criticism of the country’s extensive delegation at the COP28 climate conference last year.
According to Ajuri Ngelale, the president’s media aide, a maximum of 20 aides will now be permitted to accompany the president, with the vice president and first lady limited to five aides each. Described as a cost-cutting measure, this policy will also extend to ministers and agency heads traveling abroad for official purposes.
The decision follows public backlash, particularly on social media, directed at President Tinubu for sponsoring over 400 individuals to attend the COP28 climate conference in Dubai. Minister of Information Mohammed Idris clarified that the delegates included government and agency officials. In response to this criticism, the president’s administration has taken a proactive step to address concerns about the size and expenses of official delegations.
It is noteworthy that other African nations, including Namibia, Tanzania, and Kenya, faced similar criticism for sending large delegations to the COP28 conference. This move by President Tinubu reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility and a more streamlined approach to international representation.
