The Federal Government has lashed out at the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, over his comments on President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s policies.
Sanusi had, while speaking at the Memorial Lecture of Gani Fawehinmi organised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch in Lagos, on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, said he would no longer offer advice to Tinubu’s administration on how to tackle the country’s economic challenges.
The former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor said the government lacks credible individuals to explain the administration’s policies to Nigerians.
Sanusi added that he had initially tried to help the government but had now resolved not to do so again.
Reacting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement on Thursday, January 16, said Mohammed Idris, the reforms implemented by Tinubu’s administration have started yielding positive results in the country.
Idris stated: “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 saying 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.
Sanusi: Tinubu’s govt lacks credible officials to explain policies
“The temporary pains currently experienced from these inevitable decisions, as Sanusi himself acknowledged, are a ‘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.
“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 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 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.”
The minister added that Tinubu’s administration’s mission is 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,” Idris noted.
- Pope Francis laid to rest at St. Mary Major Basilica - April 26, 2025
- Trump, Zelensky meet in Vatican over Ukraine ceasefire deal - April 26, 2025
- Kaduna govt to convene education summit - April 26, 2025
