The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has expressed worries regarding President Bola Tinubu’s overseas trips, questioning their advantages for Nigeria’s ailing economy. Since assuming office in 2023, President Tinubu has undertaken several international journeys, including a recent two-week visit to France. These trips, often described by the presidency as initiatives to attract foreign investments, are now facing renewed examination for not producing significant results. CUPP, via its National Secretary, Peter Ameh, pointed out that despite the frequent travels and pledges to secure foreign partnerships, the majority of Nigerians have yet to experience any substantial change. The organization believes that the heightened expectations surrounding these trips have not been met with tangible outcomes, particularly regarding economic benefits. In fact, billions of naira have reportedly been spent on these international journeys, with over ₦36 billion earmarked for 2024 alone. This amount encompasses costs for flights, accommodations, and large delegations, which many critics consider excessive. Government representatives have defendedThe Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has expressed concerns about President Bola Tinubu’s trips abroad, questioning how they benefit Nigeria's faltering economy. Since assuming office in 2023, President Tinubu has undertaken multiple foreign visits, including a recent two-week sojourn in France. These trips, often characterized by the presidency as efforts to attract foreign investments, are facing renewed scrutiny for showing minimal tangible results. According to CUPP's National Secretary, Peter Ameh, despite the frequent journeys and commitments to establish foreign partnerships, most Nigerians have yet to witness any significant improvements. The organization believes that the heightened expectations surrounding these travels have not been met with substantial outcomes, particularly regarding economic benefits. It has been reported that billions of naira have been spent on international travel, with over ₦36 billion budgeted for 2024 alone. These costs include airfare, lodging, and large entourages, which many critics consider to be excessive. However, government representatives have defended these expenditures by referencing pledges totaling more than $50 billion from potential investors. Nevertheless, only a limited amount of that, such as the $6.2 billion associated with Olam Agric and Shell’s North Bonga project, has materialized. these expenditures, referencing commitments of over $50 billion from investors. However, only a fraction of that, including $6.2 billion associated with Olam Agric and Shell’s North Bonga project, has materialized.
