3:48N37.6bn spent on presidential travel in three years
Published by YuToday Staff
0 views · 8 hours ago · 3:48 read · September 2, 2026
Between June 2023 and April 2026, Nigeria’s presidency incurred N37.64 billion in travel-related expenses, covering domestic and international trips under President Bola Tinubu. The expenditure, revealed in records obtained by an accountability platform, includes visits to over a dozen countries across Africa, Europe, and Asia. The funds were allocated for official duties, summits, and diplomatic engagements, with a portion also covering travel by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
Key takeaways
- Nigeria’s presidency spent N37.64 billion on travel between June 2023 and April 2026.
- The funds covered trips to over a dozen countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana, and the UK.
- The First Lady’s foreign travel accounted for $553,884 during the same period.
- Transparency advocates are calling for greater scrutiny of these expenses.
Where did the N37.6bn travel budget go?
The bulk of the N37.64 billion was spent on airfare, accommodation, and logistics for presidential and official trips. Records indicate that President Tinubu’s itinerary included high-profile engagements such as the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya, the Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda, and the inauguration of Ghana’s President John Mahama. Additional trips took him to the UAE, Tanzania, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, among others. The First Lady’s foreign travel, totaling $553,884 between 2023 and 2024, covered visits to the US, Mozambique, Ethiopia, the UK, and France. These expenses reflect the scale of Nigeria’s diplomatic and state obligations during the period.
How does this compare to previous administrations?
While the exact figures for past administrations remain unconfirmed, the N37.64 billion spent over three years under Tinubu’s tenure highlights a significant investment in international and domestic travel. The expenditure includes both presidential and First Lady-related trips, with the latter accounting for a smaller but notable portion. Comparisons with earlier governments are difficult due to limited public data, but the transparency of these records—released by GovSpend—provides a clearer picture of how public funds are allocated for travel. The records cover a period that includes major global events, which may have influenced the frequency and cost of trips.
What do accountability groups say about the spending?
Transparency advocates have called for greater scrutiny of the presidency’s travel expenses, emphasizing the need for public accountability. GovSpend, the platform that released the records, tracks government expenditure to promote openness. While the records provide a breakdown of costs, critics argue that more detailed justifications for each trip—such as the expected outcomes or benefits to Nigeria—would enhance transparency. The N37.64 billion figure underscores the importance of monitoring public spending, particularly for high-profile officials whose travel often involves significant costs.
Could this spending impact Nigeria’s budget?
The N37.64 billion spent on travel represents a substantial portion of Nigeria’s annual budget, raising questions about its impact on other critical sectors. While travel expenses are a necessary part of diplomacy and governance, the scale of spending in this category may draw attention from policymakers and citizens alike. The funds were allocated during a period marked by economic challenges, including inflation and currency fluctuations, which could amplify concerns about prioritization. However, proponents argue that such expenditures are essential for maintaining Nigeria’s global standing and fostering international partnerships.
What’s next for travel spending under Tinubu?
As Tinubu’s administration continues, the trajectory of travel spending remains a topic of interest. With upcoming global events and potential diplomatic engagements, the presidency may face calls to justify future travel expenses more rigorously. The transparency provided by platforms like GovSpend could set a precedent for greater openness in government spending. Meanwhile, accountability groups are likely to keep a close watch on how these funds are utilized, ensuring that taxpayer money is spent judiciously. The coming years will reveal whether this level of travel expenditure is sustainable or if adjustments will be made.
What happens next
As Nigeria’s presidency continues to navigate economic and diplomatic challenges, the scrutiny of travel spending is expected to intensify. Accountability groups may push for more detailed disclosures, while policymakers could reassess the balance between diplomatic obligations and fiscal responsibility. The transparency demonstrated by platforms like GovSpend could set a new standard for government spending, ensuring that taxpayer funds are used effectively. Stakeholders will likely monitor how future travel expenses are justified and whether adjustments are made to align with broader economic goals.
People also ask
Which countries did President Tinubu visit during this period?
President Tinubu’s travel included Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana, the UAE, Tanzania, South Africa, Equatorial Guinea, China, and the United Kingdom, among others.
How was the travel spending tracked?
The expenditure records were obtained by GovSpend, an accountability platform that monitors public spending in Nigeria. The data covers domestic and foreign trips from June 2023 to April 2026.
What portion of the N37.64 billion was spent on the First Lady’s travel?
The First Lady’s foreign travel accounted for $553,884 between 2023 and 2024, covering visits to the US, Mozambique, Ethiopia, the UK, and France.
Why is this travel spending significant?
The N37.64 billion spent on travel is a substantial public expenditure during a period of economic challenges. It raises questions about transparency and the prioritization of government spending, particularly as it involves high-profile international engagements.