Leaders Should Prioritize Greater Good Of Nigerians: FG Replies Sanusi 

The Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris says rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders and urged esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetorics that undermine public trust and champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria.

The Minister, in a statement, urged the Emir of Kano Muhammad Sanusi II to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.

He said 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 where the emir acknowledged the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision “not to help the government”.

The Minister said the Federal Government acknowledges that Emir 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, it is 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 adds that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges and the 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, for instance, 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 the 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.

The Minister in the statement said

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.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s mission is to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity, and the current challenges demand courage and collective effort, not

divisive narratives.

The administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else Minister Idris added.