NIGERIA: We Don’t Need Your Endorsement For Tinubu’s Policies – FG To Emir Sanusi

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria  

The Federal Government has rebuffed recent remarks by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, asserting that it does not require his endorsement for the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement released early Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government criticized the former Central Bank Governor for allegedly allowing personal grievances and partisan sentiments to overshadow his obligation to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians.

The statement was a response to Emir Sanusi’s comments during the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, where the monarch declined to offer advice to the Tinubu administration, citing a lack of willingness to support its policies.

Sanusi was quoted as saying, “I have chosen not to speak on the economy or reforms…because if I explain it, it will help this government. But I don’t want to help this government. They are my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I won’t behave like a friend.”

He further acknowledged that Nigeria’s current economic challenges are partly the result of decades of poor governance but questioned some of the administration’s decisions, stating, “When I am ready to talk about the economy, I will.”

In its response titled “We Don’t Need Sanusi’s Stamp of Approval for Our Laudable Policies”, the government expressed disappointment at the monarch’s remarks, highlighting the inconsistency of his position given his previous advocacy for similar reforms.

“It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him due to a shift in loyalty,” the statement read.

The minister emphasised that the Tinubu administration’s reforms, though painful in the short term, are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term economic stability and growth.

“These reforms, such as the unification of exchange rates and the removal of fuel subsidies, are already yielding measurable progress.

“They have bolstered investor confidence, increased foreign reserves, and redirected resources toward critical sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” the minister said.

While acknowledging Sanusi’s right to critique government policies, the statement called on the Emir to contribute constructively rather than allow personal differences to cloud his judgment.

“At a time when bold and decisive actions are required to address entrenched economic challenges, it is imperative for leaders like His Highness to rise above personal grievances and support reforms aimed at securing a better future for Nigerians,” the statement urged.

The government reiterated its commitment to policies that promote economic recovery and sustainable growth, adding that projections from global institutions such as the World Bank indicate an upward trajectory for Nigeria’s GDP.