President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria recently visited Qatar with 38 other delegates. His visitation, which lasted barely 24 hours was from Saturday, March 2, 2024, to Sunday, March 3.
Despite his expressed commitment to reduce the cost of governance amid the inflation crisis in the country, and the corruption scandal that followed his predecessor, Tinubu headed for the Qatar journey with more than three dozen other delegates, including his two sons –Seyi, and Yinka.
The delegates assigned to travel with President Tinuubu were divided into two batches.
The first batch, which consists of sixteen individuals, who were scheduled to arrive on February 28, 2024, includes – Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari.
The second batch was made up of 22 people. The list has Seyi Tinubu, Yinka Tinubu, PPS, Hakeem Muti-Okunola, SCOP, Ambassador Victor Adekunle Adeleke, PP, Dr. Ade Tinubu, and SSAP (Household), Subair Oluwatoyin.
What Does This Mean For President Tinubu’s Proposed Cost-Cut Efforts?
President Tinubu recently endorsed a 60% reduction in official travel entourages as part of cost-cutting measures. The decision comes amidst nationwide protests addressing issues like hardship, hunger, and high living costs.”
While justifying his cabinet size, the President claimed his administration prioritizes citizens’ interests. In addressing the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) delegation, he explained, “If you combine too many ministries because you want to save money, you will have a future of non-performance and no results.”
It is claimed that this present administration set the record of having the highest number of ministers since 1999. Given the present economic hardship, Tinubu surpassed Obasanjo, Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and Buhari, and named 48 ministers.
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Tinubu’s cost-cutting decision sparked skepticism. Critics questioned the lavish lifestyles of the National Assembly and political appointees, deeming it inconsistent with current economic realities.
Making a trip to Qatar with a large number of delegates, including family is assumed as a total contradiction to the President’s attempt to cut the cost of governance. Some Nigerians claim that President Tinubu is known for lip service and not fully committed to cutting costs.
SaharaReporters reported that Seyi and his brother, Yinka have accompanied President Tinubu on virtually every foreign trip and he also uses the presidential jet. This caused an outrage amongst concerned Nigerians and questions were asked.
The cost of transporting 38 delegates for a 2-day visit on taxpayers’ money is undoubtedly a heavy weight on the current economy, especially with the relentless efforts of the CBN (Central Bank of Nigeria) Governor, Yemi Cardoso in floating Naira in the global market.
Is this trip taking the economy forward or backward?
Is it ideal for the President’s family to go on official trips?
In defense of President Tinubu’s decision to add his sons to the delegates who were to visit Qatar with him, the Senior Special Assistant to Tinubu on Digital and New Media, O’tega Ogra said it was nothing new.
In the comment he made on X, he mentioned,
It is not uncommon for children of world leaders to accompany their parents on foreign trips. In fact, it is the norm. Canadian PM Trudeau is known to travel with his family on official trips abroad. Same with UK PMs – even if somewhat muted.
He further claimed their involvement in the trip was for diplomacy and for educating them on governance.
From the public image and diplomacy angle, bringing family members can soften a leader’s public image and aid in diplomatic relations by showcasing a relatable, family-oriented side.
For some leaders, taking their children on such trips is a way of educating them about world affairs and different cultures. Others do it to maintain some semblance of family life, despite the demands of public office, and for security considerations.
The Obamas, Clintons, Bushs, Trumps and others went on tons of foreign trips whilst in office with their families.
We really need to stop majoring in minors in the name of castigating everything.
