The Federal Government has addressed remarks made by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, during a public event in Lagos concerning the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, had on Wednesday, declared that he would no longer offer advice to the administration of President Bola Tinubu on how to address the country’s economic challenges.
In a statement released by the Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, on Thursday, the government acknowledged the emir’s right to express his opinion on national matters, noting his recognition of the necessity of the reforms, which he described as a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management.”
However, the government expressed disappointment in Sanusi’s decision to withhold constructive contributions, citing perceived antagonism from the administration.
“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,” the statement read
The Government emphasised the importance of the current reforms in addressing long-standing economic challenges. It highlighted the benefits of the reforms, such as the unification of exchange rates, which has boosted investor confidence, and the removal of fuel subsidies, which has freed up resources for investment in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
“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. Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.”
In the statement, the government also called on Emir Sanusi to rise above personal grievances and contribute constructively to national discourse.
“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 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 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,” the
Reiterating its commitment to collaboration, the government urged leaders to avoid rhetoric that could erode public trust and instead champion unity and collective progress.
“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,” the statement added.
The government reaffirmed its determination to pursue policies that promote economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity for Nigerians, emphasising that this is a critical time for unity.
“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.”
