The Federal Government has responded to recent comments made by the Emir of Kano, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking at a public event in Lagos, Sanusi acknowledged the necessity of the reforms but stated his decision “not to help the government” explain them.
He further criticised the government’s lack of qualified spokespeople capable of explaining their policies to the public. “Let them explain to Nigerians why they pursue these policies. I began by helping, but now I refuse to,” he stated.
He said: ” They don’t even have people with pedigree that can come and explain to the people what they are doing. I am not going to help. I started by helping, but I am not going to help. Let them come and explain to Nigerians why they are pursuing the policies that they are pursuing.
Reacting via a statement released by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Federal Government stressed that it does not require the endorsement of Emir Sanusi or any individual to validate its policies. “We acknowledge Sanusi’s right, like any Nigerian, to express his opinion on the administration’s actions,” the statement read. “However, it is disappointing for a leader from an institution rooted in fairness and justice to admit withholding the truth over personal interests.”
The government reiterated its commitment to tackling Nigeria’s economic challenges through bold and transformative reforms. It highlighted progress in key areas, such as exchange rate unification, the removal of fuel subsidies, and debt service reduction, describing these measures as critical steps toward long-term economic stability.
“These reforms, while painful in the short term, are essential for securing Nigeria’s future,” the statement noted. “The unification of exchange rates has boosted investor confidence, and the resources saved from removing fuel subsidies are being channelled into critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.”
The government criticised Emir Sanusi for what it described as a shift in loyalty and an undermining of initiatives he had previously supported. “It is disappointing that reforms widely recognised as essential by global experts, including Emir Sanusi himself, are now being subtly condemned due to personal estrangement from his ‘friends’ in government,” it stated.
Calling for unity and collaboration, the Federal Government urged all stakeholders to prioritize the nation’s progress over personal or partisan interests. “Rebuilding Nigeria requires courage, focus, and sacrifice,” the statement declared. “This is a time for collaboration, not divisive narratives.”
