FG halts payment for unauthorised foreign trips by appointees

The Federal Government has issued a directive to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to cease processing payments for official foreign trips undertaken by government appointees if these trips have not received prior approval from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

The circular, dated August 13, 2026, and signed by SGF George Akume, highlights persistent non-compliance with existing regulations. It notes that despite multiple previous circulars since 2012 aimed at regulating foreign travel, some appointees continue to embark on such trips without the necessary authorization. This trend, the government stated, undermines efforts to ensure proper coordination, accountability, transparency, and prudent management of public resources.

The directive mandates that accounting officers, permanent secretaries, and heads of federal agencies must ensure no expenditure for official foreign travel is processed without the requisite OSGF approval. The Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation will require appointees to present evidence of OSGF approval during audits. Any expenditure incurred without the required approval will be subject to reporting under extant financial regulations and audit procedures.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also instructed to make OSGF approval a mandatory requirement when processing Notes Verbales, diplomatic communications essential for facilitating foreign travel.