Government officials in Nigeria will now require prior approval from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, before embarking on official foreign trips, as part of measures by the Federal Government to strengthen accountability, reduce unnecessary expenditure and ensure proper coordination of official travels.
The SGF, George Akume, issued the directive in a circular dated August 13, 2026, addressed to ministers, senior government officials and heads of government agencies. He said the decision followed continued cases of officials travelling abroad without obtaining the required approval, despite existing government guidelines.
Under the new directive, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required to demand evidence of OSGF approval before processing official travel documents, diplomatic facilitation or visa applications for government appointees.
The Auditor-General for the Federation was also directed to verify evidence of approval during audits of official foreign trips funded with public resources. The SGF further ordered accounting officers and heads of government agencies to ensure that no expenditure for official foreign travel is processed without the required approval.
He warned that expenses incurred on unauthorised foreign trips would be reported in accordance with existing financial regulations and audit procedures.
The directive takes immediate effect, with all ministers, permanent secretaries and heads of government agencies directed to ensure strict compliance.
