The Federal Government of Nigeria has stated that the current administration does not need the appraisal of His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
This was in response to the recent statements made by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II at a recent event in Lagos to mark the 21st memorial lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi where he criticized some of the Government’s policies and stated that he would remain an observer and not offer economic advice to the Tinubu administration due to perceived personal grievances.
At the event Sanusi had said, “I have decided not to speak about the economy or the reforms, nor to explain anything regarding them. If I explained, it would only benefit this government, and I don’t want to aid this government.
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“They’re my friends. If they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. So, I watch them being stewed, and they don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they’re doing. But I’m not going to help.”
Federal Government Response
In a statement signed by Mohammed Idris, fnipr, the Minister of Information, the FG noted it needed no approval from the Emir for its policies.
“First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express opinion either in form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being ran.
“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 saying 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.” The statement Read.
FGN Delivers Progress Report
The statement went further to deliver progress report under the current administration which the government sees as ‘essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth’.
“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 statement read in part.
Call For Emir Sanusi II to Come Aboard
The statement further urged the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians especially with his background in Economics.
The government in the statement also expressed its openness to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders, while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else in the journey towards delivering on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all.