Implement policies that reduce poverty – Emir Sanusi tells govt

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has urged Nigerian leaders to focus on economic policies that improve people’s lives, saying policies should be judged by how they affect citizens’ welfare.
Speaking at a conference in Kano on Thursday, the emir said the country needs policies that reduce poverty, raise living standards and encourage inclusive growth.

Represented by the Danmadamin Kano and a Professor of Economics at Bayero University, Kano, Abubakar Aliyu Sanusi, the monarch described the event as timely because of Nigeria’s current economic and political challenges.

He said, “Economic policies should be assessed based on their impact on the welfare of citizens. Any economic policy that does not improve the welfare of the people is inherently ineffective.”

Sanusi also called on leaders to learn from history, strengthen institutions and promote justice, saying no country can build a better future without addressing unresolved problems from the past.

He listed insecurity, corruption, poverty and poor infrastructure as some of Nigeria’s biggest challenges. He also urged politicians to move away from selfish politics and focus on serving the people.

“Power-sharing should not only be about geographical rotation but about ensuring that credible, competent and compassionate leaders emerge to serve the people,” he said.

The emir appealed to Nigerians, regardless of their religion or political affiliation, to embrace unity, tolerance and shared responsibility in building the country.

He added that although Nigeria has made progress since independence, it still struggles with political instability, ethnic and religious tensions, insecurity and economic hardship.