Nigerian govt says Emir Sanusi deceptive for reneging on what he’d consistently advocated
Discourse around the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration has been marked by a notable exchange between the Nigerian government and Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II of Kano.
The federal government, represented by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, has asserted that it does not require the approval or endorsement of Emir Sanusi regarding its economic strategies.
He said it was disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of shift in loyalty
The government acknowledges that every Nigerian, including Emir Sanusi, possesses the fundamental right to express opinions about how the country is governed. This includes both commendations and criticisms of governmental actions.
READ ALSO: Emir Sanusi reveals why he halted advocacy for Tinubu govt’s economic reform
However, Minister Idris emphasized that while such expressions are valid, they should not be influenced by personal interests or perceived grievances against the administration.
He claimed that the federal government has implemented significant reforms aimed at addressing long-standing economic challenges in Nigeria.
These include the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates—measures designed to stabilize the economy and promote growth.
The government argues that these reforms are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and have been recognized as necessary by global experts, including Sanusi himself in previous contexts.
Emir Sanusi recently declared his decision to refrain from advising or supporting the current administration’s economic policies, saying the government has not been friendly with him, and citing a lack of credible individuals within the government who can effectively communicate these policies to Nigerians.
He expressed disappointment over what he perceives as a failure among his “friends” in government to act in accordance with their shared values and responsibilities towards the nation.
In response to Sanusi’s remarks, Minister Idris articulated that it is disappointing for someone with Sanusi’s expertise to undermine essential reforms due to personal feelings or shifts in loyalty.
The minister urged Sanusi to prioritize national interests over personal grievances, reinforcing that constructive dialogue is welcomed but should not detract from the government’s commitment to its policy objectives.
The overarching message from the federal government is one of resilience and determination to pursue policies aimed at collective progress for all Nigerians. The administration maintains that it does not need validation from any individual, including Emir Sanusi, as it strives toward economic inclusivity and sustainability.
Read the minister’s full statement below:
WE DON’T NEED SANUSI’S STAMP OF APPROVAL FOR FG’s LAUDABLE POLICIES
The government notes the recent remarks by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos. We note the emir’s acknowledgement of the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision “not to help the government”.
First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in the form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run. However, we find it amusing that a leader, more so one from an institution that ennobles forthrightness, fairness, and justice, would publicly admit to shuffling off telling the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.
It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated.
The temporary pains currently experienced from these inevitable decisions, as Sanusi himself acknowledged, are a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management” more than anything else.
These reforms are already delivering measurable progress. The unification of exchange rates has bolstered investor confidence, which has contributed to increased foreign reserves and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to shield itself from external economic shocks. The removal of the fuel subsidy has freed up significant resources, allowing for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Projections from respected institutions, including the World Bank, show an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signalling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery. Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.
It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of shift in loyalty. His Highness, given his background in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feels estranged from his “friends” in government.
We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.
Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetoric that undermines public trust. Instead, they owe it a duty to champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. This is a critical time for our country, what is needed is collaboration, not unnecessary distractions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else.
Let history record this moment as a turning point—when leaders and citizens alike choose to prioritize the nation’s destiny over personal gain. Together, we will deliver on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all.
Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Minister of Information and National Orientation
January 16, 2025
