Raised Eyebrows as Seyi Tinubu, Actress, Stewards, Chefs, Cooks Among Nigeria’s Delegation to COP28 in Dubai

The ongoing United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai has sparked widespread reactions as Nigeria boasts a staggering 1,411 delegates, although the Federal Government claims to have sponsored only 422.

Critics, including presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, alongside civil society organizations, have condemned the massive delegation, labeling it a jamboree and a misuse of scarce resources. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for transparency, urging the government to disclose delegate names and prompting the National Assembly to investigate.

Among the controversial delegation, a list of registered Nigerian participants at COP28 reveals surprising additions such as President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi, alongside chefs, luggage officers, stewards, and over 50 personal assistants. Notable figures include actress and on-air personality Toke Makinwa, IBD Dende, and senior special assistants to the Lagos State governor.

The delegation further comprises more than 30 ministers and heads of government agencies, spanning various sectors, with the United Nations noting Nigeria’s rank as the third-largest group at the conference, trailing behind China and Brazil.

As the debate over the necessity and efficiency of the delegation intensifies, COP28 remains a focal point for global climate discussions, with Nigeria’s presence drawing both admiration and skepticism.