President Bola Tinubu has asked the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to halt the processing of visas for any government personnel planning to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The decision issued by the President this afternoon is thought to be part of a larger effort to cut the cost of governance in Nigeria, according to a statement issued by his media adviser, Ajuri Ngelale.

It was also stated that the instruction applies specifically to those who do not have proof of direct involvement in the UNGA’s official schedule of activities.

The presidency also stated that, in order to avoid any sharp practice in this regard, the United States Mission in Nigeria is being directed on official visa processing, while Nigeria’s Permanent Mission in New York is being directed to prevent and stop the accreditation of any government official who is not on the protocol lists forwarded by the approving authority.

“By the President’s directive, all Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are directed to ensure that all officials approved for inclusion in the UNGA delegation strictly limit the number of aides and associated staff participating in the event.” Any excesses or irregularities in this regard will be removed during the final verification process.

“The President wishes to affirm that, going forward, government officials and government spending must reflect the prudence and sacrifice made by well-meaning Nigerians across the country,” the statement continued.