- He lamented that many officials prefer to please leaders with empty praise
- Sanusi applauded fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification
- Both leaders emphasised that true governance requires courage
Emir of Kano and former CBN Governor, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called on ministers and presidential aides to stop praise-singing and instead offer honest, constructive advice that can help rebuild Nigeria’s struggling economy.
Eko Hot Blog reports that speaking at the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference and Book Launch in Abuja, Sanusi warned that excessive flattery in government weakens accountability and undermines progress.
He lamented that many officials prefer to please leaders with empty praise rather than speak truthfully about the nation’s problems.
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Sanusi described the culture of sycophancy at official meetings as damaging, noting that leaders often accept poor advice because it comes with exaggerated praise. He said those who speak the truth are unfairly branded as enemies of the state.
He urged political appointees to act with integrity, stressing that blind loyalty has slowed Nigeria’s growth. According to him, genuine patriotism means offering sound advice, not flattery.
Commending President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, Sanusi applauded fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification but warned that the policies must be matched with fiscal discipline and responsible spending.
He argued that savings from subsidy removal would be wasted without transparency and effective financial management.
The Emir also questioned the size of the current federal cabinet, urging the government to reduce costs, limit excesses, and lead by example.
At the event, economist Atedo Peterside echoed Sanusi’s concerns, stressing that the benefits of reforms will only reach ordinary Nigerians if the government eliminates waste and invests wisely in human development.
Both leaders emphasised that true governance requires courage, accountability, and honesty, not empty praise or political convenience.
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