The Federal Government of Nigeria has responded fo rcefully to recent remarks by the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, who openly declared his refusal to offer advice to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration on how to tackle the country’s mounting economic challenges.
Sanusi, a respected economist and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), made the comments during his speech at the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism and the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture, held at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State. His comments, delivered with a touch of humor, have sparked heated debate about the role of leadership and personal interests in the nation’s quest for economic recovery.
A Bold Stance, or a Personal Vendetta?
Sanusi’s decision to withhold his expertise from the government seemed to stem from personal grievances, rather than ideological disagreements. In his speech, the Emir quipped, “I can give a viewpoint that can explain what we are going through and how it was totally predictable, most of it and maybe avoidable. But I am not going to do that. I have chosen not to speak about the economy and the reforms or even explain anything. Because if I explain it will help this government and I don’t want to help this government.”
He further expressed frustration with what he perceived as the administration’s failure to acknowledge the advice of credible voices. “I watched them being stewed, and they don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they are doing. I’m not going to help! Let them come and explain to Nigerians why the policies that are being pursued are being pursued,” he said, adding that he would rather stay home and watch a movie with popcorn than engage with the government on the country’s economic woes.
While Sanusi’s remarks were certainly provocative, they are not entirely unexpected given his outspoken nature. However, his refusal to participate in the ongoing national discourse on economic reforms has raised eyebrows, particularly among those who believe his vast expertise could have been beneficial at a time when Nigeria is navigating through tough economic waters.
FG’s Strong Rebuttal: “Rise Above Personal Interests”
In a statement released shortly after Sanusi’s remarks, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, urged the Emir to prioritize national unity over personal grievances. Idris emphasized that the government was committed to implementing necessary reforms that would secure Nigeria’s long-term stability, despite the temporary pain they might cause in the short term.
“The challenges we face today are not the product of this administration’s policies, but the consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management,” the Minister stated, echoing Sanusi’s own earlier assessment of the country’s economic situation. “The government is implementing bold reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for the country’s recovery. We must rise above personal interests and focus on the greater good.”
Idris pointed out that the reforms under President Tinubu’s leadership, including the unification of the exchange rates and the removal of fuel subsidies, were already yielding positive results, including strengthened foreign reserves and an improved investment climate. “These policies are not without challenges, but they are necessary to put Nigeria on the path to economic recovery. We cannot afford to be distracted by personal or partisan narratives that undermine public trust,” he said.
The Path to Progress: A Call for Collaboration
The back-and-forth between the Federal Government and Emir Sanusi raises a crucial question: Can Nigeria afford to let personal grievances and political dynamics dictate its economic trajectory? While the Emir is certainly entitled to his views, the government argues that the nation cannot afford to become mired in divisive rhetoric, especially at a time when national cohesion is needed to navigate through one of the toughest economic crises in recent memory.
The reforms being implemented by the Tinubu administration, though controversial, are seen by many experts as critical to Nigeria’s economic future. The unification of the exchange rates, for example, has already had a significant impact on boosting investor confidence, while the removal of fuel subsidies has freed up funds for vital investments in infrastructure and social services.
Furthermore, projections from international institutions such as the World Bank suggest that Nigeria’s GDP is poised for growth, as the country works to reduce its debt burden and create a more sustainable fiscal environment. These developments suggest that, despite the initial hardships, the country is on the right path toward recovery.
Sanusi’s Responsibility as an Expert
Sanusi’s extensive background in economics places him in a unique position to offer valuable insights into Nigeria’s economic reform efforts. As the former Governor of the CBN, he is intimately familiar with the country’s economic challenges and possesses the technical expertise to contribute meaningfully to discussions on the nation’s future. However, his decision to distance himself from the national conversation raises concerns that personal and political considerations may be influencing his actions.
The Federal Government’s call for Sanusi to rise above personal interests and prioritize the well-being of Nigerians is a reminder of the crucial role that leadership and unity play in moments of crisis. While disagreement and debate are essential to the democratic process, these should not come at the cost of national progress.
“The challenges we face today are not insurmountable,” Minister Idris concluded. “What we need now is collaboration, not division. We urge all leaders, including His Highness, to set aside personal differences and work together for a better Nigeria.”
As the country grapples with these economic reforms, one thing is clear: Nigeria’s path to recovery will require the collective efforts of all stakeholders, whether they are in government, the private sector, or the traditional institutions that have long been a part of the nation’s fabric.
