A statement credited to former president Goodluck Jonathan has been tendered before the Southwark Crown Court in the ongoing prosecution of Diezani Alison-Madueke.
The document was read in court on Tuesday, with BBC reporting that Jonathan addressed issues surrounding ministerial conduct during official foreign trips.
It was not unusual for third parties to cover certain expenses for ministers carrying out government duties abroad.
Any properly incurred incidental or in-kind assistance from third parties would be recorded and reimbursed where applicable.
Jonathan also confirmed that he gave approval for Alison-Madueke to travel on private jets for some overseas engagements.
The former petroleum minister, who served between 2010 and 2015, is standing trial alongside Olatimbo Ayinde and Doye Agama.
All three defendants are facing five charges linked to alleged bribery, which they have denied.
Prosecutors had earlier alleged that Alison-Madueke received high-value gifts and access to luxury properties from individuals seeking preferential treatment in oil contract deals, claiming the benefits were meant to secure influence in the sector.
Her defence counsel, Jonathan Laidlaw, however, argued before the court that she did not have decisive authority over the awarding of oil contracts during her time in office.
