Sequel to the presentation of the 2020 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the immediate suspension of international travels by all ministers and heads of government agencies to enable them personally lead the process of budget defence before the legislators.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Information in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Mr Willie Bassey.
The statement said the suspension of such travels would enable top government functionaries to provide the required cooperation with the legislature in order to ensure timely passage of the Appropriation Bill.
The statement reads: “Honourable Ministers who have already secured approval to travel are by this directive, required to revalidate such approvals with Mr. President after confirming the Schedule of Appearances with the relevant Committees of the National Assembly.
“Furthermore, all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have been directed to liaise with the relevant committees of the National Assembly for their Schedules of Budget defence.”
