Emir Lamido Sanusi
By EZEKIEL OBI, Abuja –
The Federal Government has responded to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II’s recent remarks on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, stating that they don’t need his stamp of approval.
NATIONAL ACCORD reports that Emir Sanusi II has announced that he will no longer provide advice to President Bola Tinubu’s administration on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges. Initially, Sanusi had offered guidance, but he has now decided to withdraw his support.
According to Sanusi, he chose not to help the government because doing so would only benefit them, and he doesn’t want to contribute to their efforts. He stated that the government should take responsibility for explaining their policies to Nigerians, emphasizing that the current economic challenges are a result of decades of poor management.
In his reaction, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idrid, in a statement on Thursday, acknowledged Sanusi’s right to express his opinion but found it amusing that he would admit to withholding the truth due to personal interests.
Mr. Idris emphasized that Nigeria is at a critical juncture, requiring bold actions to tackle economic challenges.
He highlighted the transformative reforms implemented by the administration, which are already yielding measurable progress. These reforms according to him include the unification of exchange rates, removal of fuel subsidies, and investments in critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
According to him, these reforms have bolstered investor confidence, increased foreign reserves, and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to withstand external economic shocks. Projections from institutions like the World Bank also indicate an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signaling economic recovery.
The minister urged Sanusi to prioritize the greater good of Nigerians, rise above personal interests, and contribute constructively to the reforms. He emphasized the need for unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders to rebuild Nigeria. .
Read full text below:
WE DON’T NEED SANUSI’S STAMP OF APPROVAL FOR FG’s LAUDABLE POLICIES
The Federal Government notes the recent remarks by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos. We note the emir’s acknowledgement of the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision “not to help the government”.
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 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. 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 recognized 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 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 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.
Let history record this moment as a turning point—when leaders and citizens alike choose to prioritize the nation’s destiny over personal gain. Together, we will deliver on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all.
Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Minister of Information and National Orientation
January 16, 2025
