The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria’s economy and public institutions, saying the country is facing an all-round crisis.
Speaking through his representative, human rights activist Dr. Auwalu Mudi Yakasai, the Emir said no sector in Nigeria is spared from the current hardship — from education and health to the economy and labour.
He made the remarks at the 51st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and training workshop of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), held at the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, in Kano State.
“Every other sphere of human life in Nigeria is being battered. The economy, social life, education, health — all are going down,” he said. “Even the labour movement is no longer what it used to be.”
Sanusi lamented the silence of labour unions during a period of severe economic downturn, especially with high fuel prices and declining living standards.
“In the past, labour stood with students, religious leaders, and market unions to fight for the people. What is happening now? Labour seems to have lost its voice,” he said.
He urged SSANU and other unions to revisit the three guiding principles of trade unionism — Cooperation, Contestation, and Confrontation — as effective tools for defending workers’ rights.
The Emir praised SSANU President Mohammed Haruna Ibrahim for promoting transparency and unity within the union, and noted that today’s union leaders are better educated and equipped to push for reforms.
“Being a Comrade is an honour earned through sacrifice,” Sanusi’s representative added. “It must translate into real change for members.”
He called on SSANU members to enjoy their stay in Kano and commended the union for its democratic style of leadership, saying their model should be followed by other unions.
