President Bola Tinubu firmly addressed criticism over his 48-member cabinet, rejecting calls to downsize it. Speaking during a media chat at his Bourdillon residence in Lagos on Monday, Tinubu stated, “I am not ready to shrink the size of my cabinet,” emphasizing that efficiency guided his choice of ministers.

Tinubu, a seasoned leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defended his administration's controversial policies, including the removal of the petrol subsidy in May 2023. "I have no regrets whatsoever about removing the petrol subsidy. It was necessary reform—Nigeria cannot continue being Father Christmas to neighboring countries," he said.

Since taking office, Tinubu has made notable appointments and adjustments to his cabinet. In August 2023, three months after his inauguration, he appointed 48 ministers, who were promptly screened and confirmed by the Senate. Over time, changes have been made, including the suspension of Betta Edu, the reassignment of 10 ministers in October 2024, the appointment of seven new ministers, and the dismissal of five.

Despite these moves, critics argue the cabinet remains oversized, especially with the establishment of new portfolios like the Livestock Ministry. Calls for a reshuffle persist, as many Nigerians express dissatisfaction with some ministers' performance amid surging inflation, economic hardship, and escalating insecurity.

Tinubu, however, remains steadfast in his decisions, asserting that his approach ensures the government can address the nation's challenges effectively.

Peter Obi has expressed concerns that restrictions on distributing palliatives could deter Nigerians and organizations from engaging in charitable activities. His remarks follow recent stampedes during food distribution events in Anambra and the FCT, which resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. In response, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) directed charity organizers to involve security agencies and adhere to strict crowd and safety management protocols.

Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, criticized the directive, calling it a "disturbing" yet timely response that could be misused. He warned that such measures might discourage acts of goodwill.

In a post on his X handle, Obi emphasized the need for better organization and public safety but cautioned against excessive bureaucracy that could hinder compassionate efforts. He urged authorities to focus on promoting coordination rather than imposing barriers that deter charity, especially during a period of widespread hardship and distress.

Obi called for constructive solutions, encouraging citizens to find organized ways to help those in need. He also urged the Federal Government to address the root causes of hardship by implementing lasting solutions instead of creating obstacles for those stepping in to assist.

Finally, Obi appealed to the IGP to reconsider the directive, advocating for a collaborative approach that fosters support and unity in efforts to alleviate Nigerians’ suffering.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) National Executive Council (NEC) has given the Edo State government a 14-day ultimatum to vacate its secretariat in Benin City. The directive was detailed in a statement signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja after the NEC meeting held in Owerri, Imo State. The deadline, which spans 14 working days, is set to expire on January 8, 2025.

The NLC demanded that the police vacate the premises, return confiscated properties, and refrain from interfering in trade union activities. The Union also condemned the actions of Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and the police for orchestrating what it described as a brazen invasion of the NLC State Secretariat. According to the Union, this act of impunity involved ransacking the premises and seizing items to impose illegitimate leadership on workers. It warned that failure to comply with its demands would prompt unprecedented measures to defend workers’ and trade union rights.

At the NEC meeting, the NLC discussed issues affecting Nigerian workers and the public, including the launch of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus services in the Southeast region and the worsening socio-economic conditions caused by government policies. It expressed concern over the hardship Nigerians face, particularly the persistent cash scarcity affecting business activities. The Union condemned the practice of deducting 5% of funds during cash transactions, calling it exploitative and harmful to small businesses and the informal economy. The NLC urged the federal government to address the situation urgently and called on the Central Bank to ensure sufficient cash circulation to boost economic activities.

The Union criticized the Tax Bill currently before the National Assembly, citing the exclusion of organized labor from its formulation. It stressed the need for a fair and inclusive tax system that promotes fiscal discipline and transparency while delivering tangible benefits to citizens. The NLC called for broader consultations to ensure the Tax Bill aligns with the needs of Nigerians and avoids deepening economic inequalities.

The worsening insecurity in the country was another pressing issue highlighted by the Union. Reports indicate Nigerians paid an estimated N2.23 trillion in ransom over the past year, with over 614,000 lives lost and 2.2 million people kidnapped within the same period. The NLC emphasized the urgency for government action to safeguard lives and property, restore public confidence, and uphold the rule of law.

The Union reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for workers’ rights, addressing economic injustices, and pushing for policies that promote the welfare of Nigerian citizens and sustainable development.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has revoked land allocations belonging to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume.

The revocation also affects 759 other prominent individuals and organizations in Maitama II, Abuja, due to non-payment of Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) fees.

This development was announced in a publication by the FCT Administration and shared by the special adviser to the FCT Minister, Lere Olayinka.

In a related notice, the minister warned that lands belonging to the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives Kingsley Chinda, former Senate Presidents Iyorchia Ayu and Ameh Ebute, Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno, and 610 others could also be revoked if outstanding C of O fees are not paid within two weeks.

The move follows months of appeals from the minister, urging residents of highbrow areas in the nation’s capital to clear their debts to avoid losing their land rights.