The Federal Government
has directed all its directors-general, managing directors and executive
secretaries to start flying economy class on all local and
international flights
The latest circular,
dated November 2, 2016 and published by www.TheCable.com, read: “In view
of the ensuing budgetary and fiscal challenges faced by the Federal
Government arising from low oil revenue, it has become necessary to
review the Guidelines for Local and International Travels as provided
for in Circular Ref. No. SGF. 6/S.2/X/545 of 31st March, 2016 with a
view to further prune recurrent expenses on travels and tours.
“Accordingly,
Government has decided that all Civil and Public Servants in the rank
of Directors and below in Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies
as well as Chief Executive Officers (Managing Directors, Executive
Secretaries, Directors-General, etc) of Federal Government Parastatals,
Agencies and Institutions are henceforth to travel on Economy Class for
both Local and International travels. Similarly, all non-executive
Chairmen and members of Federal Government Boards of Parastatals are
henceforth to travel Economy Class.”
However, ministers,
permanent secretaries, presidential aides, service chiefs and “relevant”
heads of armed and para-military, are still allowed to travel on
business class.
SGF Lawal further noted said there should be “immediate compliance” with the directive.
“For
avoidance of doubt, it should be noted that Government will monitor the
implementation of this directive and any breach will be appropriate
sanctioned,” the circular added.