Emir Sanusi Urges Nigerian Leaders to Prioritise Poverty Reduction Through People-Centred Economic Policies

Nigeria’s Economic Policies Should Be Measured by Citizens’ Well-Being, Emir Says

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called on Nigerian policymakers to place the welfare of citizens at the centre of national economic decision-making, stressing that the success of any policy should be determined by its ability to reduce poverty and improve living standards.

Speaking during a conference held in Kano on Thursday, the traditional ruler said Nigeria’s economic direction must focus on inclusive growth that delivers tangible benefits to ordinary people, particularly at a time when many households continue to face rising living costs and economic uncertainty.

The monarch was represented at the event by the Danmadamin Kano and Professor of Economics at Bayero University, Kano, Abubakar Aliyu Sanusi.

Focus on Policies That Improve Daily Life

Addressing participants, Sanusi argued that economic reforms should not be judged solely by financial indicators or government projections but by their real-life impact on citizens.

According to him, policies that fail to improve people’s welfare cannot be regarded as successful, regardless of their broader economic objectives.

He maintained that reducing poverty, creating opportunities and improving living conditions should remain central goals of public policy.

Nigeria Must Learn From Its Past

The Emir also urged political leaders to draw lessons from Nigeria’s historical experiences while strengthening democratic institutions and promoting justice across the country.

He said sustainable national development cannot be achieved without addressing long-standing structural challenges that have continued to hinder progress.

According to him, building stronger institutions and ensuring fairness in governance are essential steps toward achieving long-term political and economic stability.

Insecurity, Corruption and Infrastructure Remain Major Concerns

Sanusi identified several persistent issues slowing Nigeria’s development, including insecurity, corruption, widespread poverty and inadequate infrastructure.

He noted that overcoming these challenges would require leadership focused on public service rather than personal or political interests.

The Emir further advised political leaders to adopt a governance approach that places national development above partisan considerations.

Call for Competent and Compassionate Leadership

On the issue of political leadership, Sanusi said discussions about power-sharing should extend beyond regional or geographical considerations.

Instead, he urged Nigerians and political stakeholders to support the emergence of leaders who demonstrate competence, integrity and compassion.

He said effective leadership should be measured by the ability to improve governance, strengthen institutions and deliver better outcomes for citizens.

Appeal for National Unity

The Kano monarch also encouraged Nigerians from different ethnic, religious and political backgrounds to work together in pursuit of national development.

He stressed that unity, tolerance and shared responsibility remain critical to addressing the country’s complex social, economic and security challenges.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s progress since gaining independence, Sanusi observed that the country continues to grapple with political instability, ethnic and religious divisions, insecurity and economic hardship.

Why This Matters

Sanusi’s remarks come as Nigeria continues to implement economic reforms aimed at stabilising the economy amid inflation, high living costs and unemployment. His comments add to ongoing national conversations about whether economic policies are producing meaningful improvements in the daily lives of citizens.

His emphasis on measuring policy success through improvements in people’s welfare reflects a broader debate among economists, civil society groups and policymakers over balancing macroeconomic reforms with social protection and poverty reduction.

Timeline

• Thursday: Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II delivers remarks through his representative at a conference in Kano.
• He calls for economic policies that prioritise citizens’ welfare.
• He urges leaders to strengthen institutions, promote justice and tackle corruption, insecurity and poverty.
• He appeals for national unity and leadership based on competence and compassion.

Emir Sanusi Urges Nigerian Leaders to Prioritise Poverty Reduction and Citizens’ Welfare