CSO, Speak Out Africa Initiative (SOAI) Condemns FG Large Delegation to COP28 in Dubai, Advocates for Prudent Spending and Future Virtual Participation Option in line with Reducing Cost of Governance
In light of recent revelations regarding the size and composition of the Nigerian delegation to COP28 in Dubai, Speak Out Africa Initiative (SOAI) joined other well-meaning Nigerians to expresses deep concern over the potential ramifications of this extensive representation on the nation's economy. SOAI remains committed to advocating for cost effective, transparent and responsible governance, with a particular focus on reducing the cost of governance at the three tiers in Nigeria – which resonates with our CRiG.Ng (Cost Reduction in Governance) pruning radar; with the aim to spotlight, checkmate and help prune government excessive and ambitious spending.
The reported delegation of 422 delegates sponsored by the Federal Government to the two-week summit has raised legitimate questions about the necessity, relevance, and fiscal prudence of such a considerable representation. SOAI believes that, especially in the face of ongoing economic challenges, it is counter-productive and imperative for the government to be transparent in its decision-making processes and accountable to the Nigerian people.
While the deed had already been done as admitted by the minister for information, we call on the Federal Government to go beyond just telling Nigerians the size of the delegation to providing comprehensive breakdown which includes exact number of individuals and their names cum portfolio, their roles, and the specific value they bring to the discussions at COP28 summit having being sponsored by tax-payer money.
For emphasis, we demand from the government of president Bola Tinubu to address the following key points as Nigerians are entitled to know how their hard earned tax-payers’ money are spent:
- Relevance of Attendees: SOAI seeks clarification on the relevance of each delegate from Nigeria at COP28. Understanding the specific roles and expertise of each participant is crucial for ensuring that the delegation aligns with the nation's priorities and effectively represents Nigeria's interests.
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: We request a thorough cost-benefit analysis of the delegation's participation in COP28. This should include an itemized breakdown of expenses, such as flights, accommodation, and extercodes. SOAI believes that such transparency will help assess whether the expenditure on this delegation aligns with the current economic realities of Nigeria.
- Alternative Use of Funds: Given the economic challenges facing the nation, SOAI calls on the Federal Government to consider how the resources allocated for the COP28 delegation could have been more effectively utilized to address pressing issues within the country. A transparent evaluation of the opportunity cost of this delegation is essential for promoting fiscal responsibility.
Recommendation
SOAI recommends opting for virtual participation for Larger Nigeria delegates as most countries did for future summit as a means of cutting down the cost of governance.
Accordingly, SOAI remain dedicated to promoting accountability, integrity, and responsible governance in Nigeria at all levels especially considering enormous sacrifices citizens pay to see the country work. We believe that by addressing these concerns, the government would have demonstrated its commitment to fiscal prudence, transparency, and responsiveness to the needs of the Nigerian people.
We therefore, urge the Federal Government to take swiftly respond to these concerns of Nigerians, setting a precedent for accountable governance that prioritizes the well-being of all Nigerians.
You can download this public statement.
Abuja, Nigeria.
@2023.
For enquiry contact: info@speakoutafricainitiative.org
