The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has challenged political, traditional and religious leaders in Northern Nigeria to take responsibility for tackling the region’s worsening insecurity and socio-economic challenges, insisting that no outsider would solve the North’s problems.
Speaking at the annual Dhikr and National Prayers organised by the Tijaniyya Islamic sect at the Kano Emir’s Palace over the weekend, Sanusi said meaningful change would only come when leaders united to rebuild the region and improve the welfare of its people.
The former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria said Northern leaders must first reform themselves instead of expecting divine intervention or external assistance to address the region’s challenges.
“We must first change ourselves before asking Allah to change our situation. We cannot continue waiting for others to solve our problems. Even our own people have come and gone without doing what needed to be done,” he said.
Sanusi lamented what he described as the decline of the North’s fortunes, noting that the region, once admired for its achievements, is now increasingly associated with insecurity, poor education and underdevelopment.
He urged traditional rulers and political officeholders to close ranks and work collectively, warning that they would ultimately be held accountable for their stewardship.
“We must unite and work together to restore the lost glory of our land. There was a time when others looked up to us with admiration, but today the situation has changed.
“As traditional rulers and politicians, we must work together because Allah will ask each of us what we did to improve society. Let us pray that Allah grants us the strength and opportunity to transform this region and improve the lives of our people,” the monarch added.
Sanusi also commended the administration of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for what he described as efforts to improve the state.
The Emir disclosed that he had publicly backed Yusuf’s governorship ambition ahead of the 2023 elections and persuaded members of the Tijaniyya sect to support him despite their differing political affiliations.
According to him, neither he nor the Islamic clerics who supported the governor had sought contracts, appointments or personal favours from the administration.
“I have never approached you to ask for any favour, contract or appointment for anyone’s son. Neither have these clerics sought such benefits from you. They supported you because they believed it was the right thing to do,” Sanusi said.
He stressed, however, that his support for the governor would not prevent him from speaking out if the administration failed to meet its responsibilities to the people.
Responding, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his commitment to governing Kano with justice, sincerity and the fear of God.
He also appreciated religious leaders across the state for their prayers and guidance, describing them as critical partners in promoting peace, unity and sustainable development in Kano State.
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