The federal government of Nigeria has directed all director-general, managing directors, and executive secretaries of state agencies to start flying economy class.

In a circular dated November 2, 2016, the government said the decision was as a result of financial challenges Nigeria is facing, TheCable reports.

“In view of the ensuing budgetary and fiscal challenges faced by the federal government arising from low oil revenue, it has become necessary to review the Guidelines for Local and International Travels as provided for in Circular Ref. No. SGF. 6/S.2/X/545 of 31st March, 2016 with a view to further prune recurrent expenses on travels and tours,” the circulate reads.

“Accordingly, government has decided that all civil and public servants in the rank of directors and below in federal ministries, departments and agencies as well as chief executive officers (managing directors, executive secretaries, directors-general, etc) of federal government parastatals, agencies, and institutions are henceforth to travel on economy class for both local and international travels.

“Similarly, all non-executive chairmen and members of federal government boards of parastatals are henceforth to travel economy class.”

A directive had earlier been issued barring ministers from flying business class.