The Nigerian government has responded to comments made by the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Lamido Sanusi II, where he was quoted as saying that he would not offer any assistance or advice to President Bola Tinubu and the federal government on how to tackle the economic challenges facing the country.
The former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), who made the assertion while delivering an address at the 21st memorial lecture of the late legal luminary, Chief Gani Fawehimi held in Lagos on Wednesday, had said:
“I have decided not to speak about the economy or the reforms, nor to explain anything regarding them. If I explained, it would only benefit this government, and I don’t want to aid this government.
“I can give a few points that explain what we are going through and how most of it was totally predictable and avoidable, but I am not going to do that.
But in response to Sanusi’s comments, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement on Thursday, told the Emir to keep his counsel to himself as the Tinubu-led administration does not need his endorsement to continue with its ‘laudable policies.’
“The Federal 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,” Idris said in the statement.
“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 opinion either in form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being ran.
“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 saying the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.
“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 “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, signaling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery.
“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 feel 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 rhetorics that undermine 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.
“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.”