The former Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi II, recently made remarks about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration that have been addressed by the federal government. At the 21st Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture in Lagos on Wednesday, Sanusi said that he will not assist the administration with public-facing policy, citing his distancing from government supporters as justification.
It is not necessary for the government to get Sanusi’s approval for its policies, according to a statement issued Thursday by Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, who expressed unhappiness with Sanusi’s position. Instead of working to derail measures that would benefit the country, the minister advised the former emir to put his economic knowledge to good use.
Like any Nigerian, Sanusi has the right to express her opinions on government, and Idris recognised that. But he emphasised that the state of Nigeria’s economy is critical to its growth and stability at the moment. According to Idris, these policies have enabled investment in vital sectors like healthcare and infrastructure, as well as increased foreign reserves and boosted investor confidence. Among these measures is the elimination of the fuel subsidy and the unification of exchange rates.
“The temporary pains experienced are necessary consequences of decades of poor economic management,” Idris noted, echoing Sanusi’s previous advocacy for such reforms. He went on to say that the World Bank and other organisations have predicted a rising trend in Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) as the country works to establish a fiscal framework that would be sustainable for years to come. Reportedly in the Daily Trust, Idris voiced his dismay at the gently criticised reforms that are now being pushed “because of a shift in loyalty,” despite their universal recognition as crucial by experts around the world, including the Emir.
The statement warned against rhetoric that could damage public trust and urged all parties involved to work together and sacrifice for the reconstruction of Nigeria. It argued that Sanusi and other leaders should put the interests of the country ahead of their own resentments and polarising narratives. Achieving economic inclusion, sustainability, and shared prosperity in Nigeria is a top priority for President Tinubu’s administration. According to Idris, the nation is in dire need of cooperation right now, not pointless diversions.
Finally, he reaffirmed the government’s dedication to prioritising the wellbeing of Nigerians and extended an invitation for constructive engagement to all stakeholders. “Leaders and citizens alike should work together for a prosperous Nigeria,” the statement read. It claimed that this should be a watershed moment.