Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II | File Image
By Valentine Amanze
The presidency has warned the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) former governor and the Emir of Kano, His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, to desist from commenting on the federal government’s policies, stressing that his advice was not needed for the country’s economic growth.
The presidency was reacting to the recent remarks by the Kano monarch on the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos.
On his X handle, @aonanuga1956, titled, “We don’t need Sanusi’s stamp of approval for FG’s laudable policies,” the president’s media aide, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, acknowledged the monarch’s decision “not to help the government”.
“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,” Onanuga said.
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He explained that the temporary pains currently experienced from the government’s decisions, as Sanusi acknowledged, were a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management” more than anything else.
He said that the reforms were already delivering measurable progress, stressing, “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.”
Onanuga further said that it was disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—were now being subtly condemned by Sanusi 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 prioritize the greater good of Nigerians,” he said.
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