FG Seeks Discounts From Airlines On Travels By Government Officials

The Federal Ministry of Finance has disclosed that discussions with local and international airlines to secure discounts for travel by government officials are yielding positive results.

According to a statement by Mr Festus Akanbi, Special Adviser on Media to Minister of Finance, “a review of Government overhead expenditure for the period 2012 to 2014 showed that travel was the largest single expenditure item.

“A cumulative total of N248 billion, equivalent to about 18% of total overhead expenditure, was spent on travel during the period.

“This translates to N83 billion per annum. At a conservative discount of 5% on ticket prices, the estimated savings per annum is approximately N4 billion.”

The Ministry explained that given the large amount spent on travel, and consequently the significant potential for savings, “it is imperative that the Efficiency Unit prioritises travel as a key focus area for cost cutting and generation of savings.

“To this end the Efficiency Unit has engaged in negotiation discussions with local and international airlines for discounts commensurate with the large number of ticket purchases made by Government annually. The savings generated will increase funding available to the government for capital investment.”

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to cut costs and promote fiscal prudence and acknowledged the willingness of Arik Air to provide discounts on tickets purchased by the Government.