Here’s a bold statement: Nigeria’s development is being sabotaged from within, and it’s not just by accident. But here’s where it gets controversial—Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, has openly accused the country’s political elite of treating public office as a family business, prioritizing personal gain over national progress. Speaking at the 15th anniversary of Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria in Lagos, Sanusi didn’t hold back. He argued that Nigeria’s stagnation isn’t just a result of missed opportunities but of deliberately missed opportunities—a damning claim that challenges the very foundation of the nation’s leadership.
Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), pointed out that the political class often squanders national potential because their priorities are self-serving. And this is the part most people miss—he believes the root of the problem lies in how those in power perceive governance. Instead of seeing public office as a responsibility to the citizens, they view it as a means to benefit themselves, their families, and their inner circles. This mindset, he argues, is what keeps Nigeria from realizing its true potential on the global stage.
In a call to action, Sanusi urged young Nigerians to reject this dysfunctional system, which thrives on division and self-interest. He emphasized that the nation belongs to its citizens, not to the government or politicians. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can Nigeria truly move forward if its leaders continue to prioritize personal gain over collective progress? Sanusi challenged the youth to rise above ethnic and religious divides, crafting a clear and realistic roadmap for a more equitable and united Nigeria—one that breaks free from the cycle of rivalries and conflicts.
He painted a vision of a Nigeria that stands tall among nations, not as a product of manufactured divisions, but as a country that harnesses its potential for the greater good. This isn’t just a call for change; it’s a call for revolution in mindset. But here’s the controversial twist—Sanusi’s critique isn’t just about the current leadership; it’s an invitation for every Nigerian to question their role in perpetuating or dismantling this system. Are we, as citizens, doing enough to reclaim our nation’s future? The conversation is open, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
