The Federal Government has responded sharply to recent comments made by the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the administration’s economic policies, stating that his endorsement is neither required nor sought.
In a statement issued early Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government called on the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor to prioritize the nation’s interest over personal grievances and partisan undertones.
This follows remarks by Emir Sanusi at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, where he stated his refusal to advise President Bola Tinubu’s government on how to navigate the country’s economic challenges.
Sanusi had reportedly said: “I can give a few points about what we are going through and how it was predictable and avoidable. But I am not going to do that. I have chosen not to speak on the economy or reforms because if I explain it, it will help this government. But I don’t want to help this government.”
The monarch criticized the government’s lack of clear communication on its policies and added that he would speak on economic issues only when he felt ready to do so.
In reaction, the Federal Government expressed disappointment, emphasizing that the current administration’s economic reforms are aimed at addressing decades of mismanagement and ensuring long-term stability.
The Minister’s statement read in part:
“It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of a 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.”
The statement highlighted progress from policies such as the unification of exchange rates and the removal of fuel subsidies, which have reportedly boosted investor confidence and freed up resources for critical sectors like education and healthcare.
The government urged Sanusi to reconsider his stance and use his platform to support efforts to rebuild the nation’s economy, as the reforms, while painful in the short term, are designed to secure Nigeria’s future.
