“Foreign Minister Tuggar Advocates for More Global Trips for President Tinubu”
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has called for more foreign trips by President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing the positive impact of the President’s previous international engagements.
Speaking during a live broadcast on Channels TV, Tuggar argued that the country has the financial capacity to support additional foreign travel for the President and his cabinet, citing the economic benefits of past trips. He praised the success of President Tinubu’s visit to Brazil, where the President secured $2 million in investments aimed at developing Nigeria’s livestock sector. Tuggar highlighted that Brazil, a global leader in the industry, could offer valuable knowledge to help tackle the herders-farmers’ crisis in Nigeria.
Tuggar stressed that the advantages of these trips far outweighed their costs, saying, “Look at the benefits: you travel once and secure millions of dollars in investment. How much does travelling cost compared to the benefits?”
The Minister’s remarks come amid scrutiny over the extensive number of foreign trips taken by President Tinubu. Reports show that as of late 2024, the President had spent more than 30% of his time abroad, with some critics questioning the expenses related to these travels. In a separate report, it was revealed that Tinubu’s trips and related expenses had cost the government over N2.3 billion in the first six months of 2024.
Tuggar, however, argued that these international engagements were vital for Nigeria’s growth and global positioning. He urged for more of such trips, suggesting that Nigeria’s resources and potential economic returns justified the cost.
While critics like former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi have called for President Tinubu to focus more on domestic affairs, including visiting Nigerian states, Tuggar maintained that the international benefits were essential for the country’s economic development.
Despite the debate surrounding these expenses, Tuggar’s stance is clear: increased foreign engagement is key to Nigeria’s future prosperity.
