FG Stops Payments for Unauthorized Foreign Trips

The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a directive to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to cease processing payments for official foreign trips undertaken by government appointees without prior approval from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. This directive, contained in a circular dated August 13, 2026, and issued by Secretary George Akume, addresses various high-ranking officials including ministers and heads of federal agencies.

The circular emphasizes that despite previous regulations, some appointees continue to travel without the necessary approvals, undermining government efforts for accountability and resource management. It mandates that no expenditures related to such trips be processed without the requisite approval and requires the Office of the Auditor-General to verify this during audits.

Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is instructed to make OSGF approval mandatory for processing diplomatic facilitation and visa applications for government appointees traveling abroad.