Tinubu Affirms Government’s Commitment to Citizens’ Needs Amid Criticism; Kekere-Ekun Sworn in as CJN

President Tinubu Reassures on Government Sensitivity to Public Needs

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is deeply sensitive to the needs and aspirations of the populace, despite ongoing economic challenges. Addressing critics who have questioned the administration’s commitment to reducing governance costs, particularly following the recent procurement of a $100 million presidential jet, Tinubu emphasized that his government is taking various measures to address these issues.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for Course 32 of the National Defence College in Abuja, Tinubu highlighted the significant progress made in tackling some of the nation’s pressing challenges. His remarks come amid scrutiny of his administration’s spending priorities and efforts to curb economic difficulties faced by Nigerians.

Breaking News: Kekere-Ekun Appointed as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice

In a significant development, President Tinubu has sworn in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). This appointment, which is pending confirmation by the Senate, marks a key moment in the judiciary’s leadership. Kekere-Ekun took the oath of office at the State House in Abuja, succeeding Ariwoola, who retired after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

Nigeria’s Petrol Subsidy Expenditure: A Record-Breaking Analysis

Recent data reveals that Nigeria’s petrol subsidy spending has surged to an unprecedented level. Over the past 19 months, including the final five months of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure and the first seven months of President Tinubu’s term, the country has spent a staggering N9.31 trillion on petrol subsidies. This amount surpasses the N8.15 trillion spent over a 16-year period from 2006 to 2021.

According to Agora Policy, the expenditure on petrol subsidies included N5.10 trillion in 2023 and N4.21 trillion in the first half of 2024. The report also notes that in 2022 alone, the government spent N2.911 trillion on petrol subsidies, contributing to a total of N20.37 trillion spent over the past 18 years and seven months.

AGF Warns Against Threats to Democratic Governance

In related news, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has issued a stern warning against any attempts to undermine Nigeria’s democratic governance. Fagbemi emphasized that while the administration is committed to upholding citizens’ fundamental rights, any breaches of these rights will be addressed strictly in accordance with the Constitution. He reaffirmed that the current government holds a clear mandate from the people and can only be changed at the end of its constitutional term.