Kehinde Fajobi
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has defended the frequent foreign trips made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since he took office, stating that the country is financially capable of supporting them.
The trips, which have sparked public debates due to the economic difficulties faced by citizens and concerns over the president’s large entourage, have raised questions about their value.
Tuggar, in an appearance on Channels Television Politics Today, justified the president’s travels, emphasising their strategic importance and the benefits they bring to Nigeria.
He argued that such trips are essential for strengthening ties with global leaders and advancing Nigeria’s interests.
He said, “It is not a fair assessment. The administration is still new because the President was sworn in in 2023. In global terms, he is still a new president.
“He needs to interact with his colleagues and fellow heads of state to be able to establish relationships.”
Tuggar highlighted the tangible benefits of these trips, pointing to the $2 billion in investments secured during Tinubu’s visit to Brazil.
He added, “You can further see the fruits of these trips and their benefits which attracted $2bn (worth) of investments like he did in Brazil. In fact, I would venture to say we are not travelling enough. We should do more.”
Refuting claims that Nigeria cannot afford the trips, Tuggar argued that the costs were minimal compared to the country’s economic waste.
“Nigeria has the money. How much does travelling cost compared to the benefits? Again, how much does it cost really when you compare it to some of the things that the President has already addressed?
“How much have we wasted on fuel, electricity and other subsidies? He was subsidising consumption instead of production and subsidising the real sector of the economy,” he stated.
Since his inauguration in 2023, President Tinubu has made approximately 32 foreign trips, visiting 19 countries.