SENATOR OSHIOMHOLE T@CKLES THE TRADE MINISTER FOR SUGGESTING N1 BILLION FOR A VACATION TO SWITZERLAND, SAYING, “SIT IN YOUR OFFICE AND WORK FOR NIGERIANS.”

The Senate has reprimanded Doris Nkiruka-Anite Uzoka, the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Investment, for having included N1 billion in the 2024 budget for a trip to Geneva, Switzerland.

On December 12, Uzoka spoke before the Senate Committee on Trade in support of her budget. The minister informed the joint panel that N8.1 billion is designated for capital expenditures, and N905 million is set aside for overhead expenses.

Adams Oshiomhole, a senator from Edo North and a committee member, responded to her presentation by saying, “I see that you intend to travel to Geneva next year and you have budgeted over N1bn for that.” We cannot continue to send overburdened teams on international missions.

To cut costs, make use of the professionals we have in your national offices. Work for Nigerians as you sit at your office, Madam.