Monday, December 23, 2024

President Tinubu Defends 48-Member Cabinet and Petrol Subsidy Removal

 

President Bola Tinubu has stood by his decision to maintain a 48-member cabinet, dismissing claims that it is unnecessarily large. Speaking during a media chat at his Bourdillon residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Monday, December 23, the president emphasized that efficiency in governance remains his priority.

“I am not ready to shrink the size of my cabinet,” Tinubu stated, explaining that his choice of ministers aligns with the administration's objectives and ensures optimal performance. Critics have labeled the cabinet as “bloated,” but Tinubu firmly defended its composition, asserting that it was tailored to meet Nigeria’s governance needs.

During the same session, Tinubu reaffirmed his stance on the controversial removal of the petrol subsidy, a decision made shortly after his inauguration in May 2023.

“I don’t have any regrets whatsoever in removing petrol subsidy,” Tinubu declared. “We were spending our future and deceiving ourselves; that reform was necessary.”

He argued that subsidizing fuel had disproportionately benefited neighboring countries rather than Nigerians, describing the previous arrangement as akin to playing "Father Christmas."

Tinubu’s remarks come at a time of heightened public discourse surrounding his administration’s policies and governance structure. While his decisions have drawn both support and criticism, the president’s resolve underscores his commitment to implementing reforms he deems critical for Nigeria’s progress.

As debates continue over the size of the cabinet and the impact of the subsidy removal, Tinubu’s administration remains steadfast in its policy direction.

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