Presidency cuts COP29 delegation size, saves N10 billion

The Presidency has announced measures to significantly reduce federal government expenditure for the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, this November. Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, disclosed these measures during a press briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday. He noted that the cost-saving initiatives are expected to save the government approximately N10 billion during the 11-day event.

Ngelale emphasized that the decision to cut costs was driven by the need to avoid the financial mismanagement and public embarrassment experienced during COP28, held in Dubai last November. Among the key cost-cutting measures is the elimination of the traditional pavilion, which previously cost $500,000 to rent. Instead, a delegation office will be set up within the conference premises to facilitate meetings.

Additionally, Ngelale mentioned that wasteful spending on platforms requiring expensive consultancies and subcontracts for lighting and technological provisions would be discontinued. These services will now be provided directly by the National Council on Climate Change, resulting in further savings.

The introduction of a climate accountability and transparency portal is another critical measure aimed at reducing costs. This portal will provide real-time, transparent access to information about all government delegation members attending COP29, ensuring that only those with an economic imperative to participate in the conference are included. Ngelale stated, “Anyone not directly engaged in activities that attract business opportunities or finance into the country will not be part of the federal government’s delegation.”

Reflecting on the lessons learned from COP28, Ngelale explained that an audit conducted by the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and the National Council on Climate Change revealed significant unnecessary expenditures. In response, the government has resolved to forgo high-cost purchases of pavilion spaces, instead opting for more cost-effective alternatives.

By implementing these measures, the government expects to save over N10 billion, underscoring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and economic efficiency. Ngelale concluded, “This is the change that Nigerians have asked for, and this is the change that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is delivering.”

He also assured that this approach to cost management and transparency at COP29 marks the beginning of a broader effort by the administration to conduct comprehensive audits and address inefficiencies in government spending.