On Thursday morning, the Federal Government responded to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II of Kano, stating that it does not require his endorsement of its policies, which it considers commendable. In a statement by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government urged the Emir to set aside personal and partisan interests in favor of the country’s greater good.
This response came after the Emir, during a memorial lecture in Lagos, declared that he would not advise President Bola Tinubu’s administration on addressing the nation’s economic challenges. He expressed concerns about the predictability and avoidability of the current economic issues but chose not to share his insights, indicating that he does not wish to support the government unless it acts like a true friend.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, criticized the current government, stating they lack qualified individuals to communicate their policies effectively. He emphasized that he will no longer assist the government with advice, even though he initially tried to help. He attributed the nation’s current struggles to decades of mismanagement and warned that the ongoing issues were predictable, though he believes not all actions taken by the government are correct. Sanusi added that he would discuss economic matters when he felt ready.
In response, the Minister of Information and National Orientation expressed disappointment in the Emir’s comments, suggesting they stemmed from a “shift in loyalty.” The Ministry’s statement acknowledged Sanusi’s right to express his views but criticized him for prioritizing personal interests over truth and accountability, which are values that should be upheld by leaders.
The Minister of Information emphasized that Nigeria is at a critical point where bold measures are needed to address longstanding economic challenges. The current administration has instituted transformative reforms deemed essential for the country’s long-term stability and growth, aligning with the views previously expressed by Emir Sanusi II.
The Minister noted that the temporary difficulties resulting from these necessary measures stem from decades of poor economic management. He pointed out that the reforms, including the unification of exchange rates and the removal of fuel subsidies, are already yielding positive results, such as increased investor confidence and foreign reserves. These changes are expected to enhance Nigeria’s economic resilience and facilitate investment in vital sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Furthermore, improvements in fiscal management have led to a more sustainable economic framework. The Minister expressed disappointment that the Emir is now criticizing these critical reforms—a stance he believes stems from a personal shift in loyalty—suggesting that, as an experienced economist, the Emir should constructively contribute rather than undermine efforts aimed at collective progress.