The federal government has berated former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Emir of Kano Lamido Sanusi II over comments credited to him about the economic policies and reforms being carried out by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Sanusi had at an event in Lagos Wednesday stated that he will not provide any form of assistance to President Tinubu’s administration.
Sanusi said that he could easily explain the factors contributing to the country’s current economic challenges and how most of these issues were predictable and avoidable. However, he has chosen not to offer any such insights or assistance to the federal government.
But the minister of information and national orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, in a statement he personally signed early Thursday morning, accused Sanusi of critising Tinubu’s reforms because of “shift in loyalty.”
He urged the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.
“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 feel estranged from his ‘friends’ in government,” he said.
The Minister while acknowledging Sanusi’s and indeed any Nigerian right to express opinion either in form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being ran, he said the federal government “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. “
Idris noted that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges, adding that the reforms are the reforms are already yielding results.
He said: “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 ‘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, 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.”
The minister said rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders, urging leaders to refrain from rhetorics that undermine public trust.
He said Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
“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.”