FG Requires OSGF Approval for Officials' Foreign Trips

The Federal Government has issued a directive requiring all official foreign trips by government appointees to obtain prior approval from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF). This directive, signed by Senator George Akume on August 13, takes immediate effect and supersedes any inconsistent administrative practices.

The measure aims to enhance accountability, fiscal discipline, transparency, and prudent management of public resources. Akume noted that some appointees had been undertaking foreign trips without the necessary approvals.

The circular mandates that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must require evidence of valid OSGF approval for processing official travel-related applications. Additionally, the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation is instructed to verify OSGF approval during audits of official foreign trips funded by public resources.

Expenditures incurred without the required approval will be reported according to financial regulations. Accounting officers and heads of agencies are directed to ensure no travel-related expenditures are processed without prior OSGF approval.