Raphael Oni
As the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly approached, President Bola Tinubu made a bold move to reduce Nigeria’s official delegation to the event. The decision, aimed at prudent resource management and cost reduction, sent a clear message: only those with genuine business at the UNGA would be allowed to attend.
Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s directive at a retreat for heads of government agencies, emphasizing the need for strict compliance. “If you have no business at the UN General Assembly, do not step foot in America,” he quoted the President as saying.
The move was a response to past criticisms of Nigeria’s large delegations to international events, where some individuals allegedly used the opportunity for personal gain. Tinubu’s administration was determined to change this narrative, ensuring that only those with a genuine mandate would represent Nigeria.
As the retreat progressed, Gbajabiamila urged agency heads to lead by example, demonstrating excellence in compliance with statutes, laws, and policies. The President’s Renewed Hope Agenda depended on effective collaboration and coordination among government agencies.
With the UNGA just weeks away, the stage was set for a test of Tinubu’s policy. Would Nigeria’s delegation be streamlined, or would old habits persist? One thing was certain – the President was listening to the concerns of Nigerians, and he was committed to addressing them diligently.
As the world watched, Nigeria’s actions at the UNGA would speak louder than words. Would the country finally break free from the shackles of wasteful spending and embrace a new era of prudence and accountability? Only time would tell.