These words repeat what Nehemiah had recorded in Nehemiah 2:12, that he had told no one what his plans were. The repetition underscores the wisdom of his being careful and the reason for his secrecy. He had no idea who among the leadership were kindly disposed to Sanballat and/or Tobiah (Nehemiah 2:10).
16 And the officials did not know where I had gone or what I was doing, and I had not yet told the Jews, the priests, the nobles, the officials, and the rest who were to do the work.