The President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian Government has told the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido, that it does not need his help regarding the country’s economic reforms.
Sanusi, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, stated on Wednesday that he will not help the government regarding Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
He said this while speaking at the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism with the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture held at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State.
According to Sanusi, his decision stems from the government’s failure to behave like friends, despite their relationship. He also criticised the government for lacking credible individuals who can effectively communicate their policies.
Responding, in a press statement issued by Mohammed Idris, the country’s Minister of Information and National Orientation on Thursday, the government acknowledged the emir’s right to express his opinion but expressed disappointment that he would subtly condemn reforms he once advocated for.
He said, “We don’t need Sanusi’s stamp of approval for FG’s laudable policies.”
The government urged Sanusi to prioritise the greater good of Nigerians and contribute constructively rather than undermining the reforms.
The statement reads: “First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in the form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run. 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 telling the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.
“It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. 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 government also quoted Sanusi’s words by stating that current hardships Nigerians are facing are a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management” more than anything else.
The statement continued: “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, signalling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery.
“Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.
“It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognised 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 feels estranged from his ‘friends’ in government.
“We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritise 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 rhetoric that undermines 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.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
“The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else.”
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