Sanusi backs Tinubu’s reforms but warns against inefficient spending and food import policies, urging structural reforms and spending restraint.
Sanusi backs Tinubu’s reforms but has urged the Nigerian government to exercise greater discipline in public spending and rethink its food importation strategy.
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In a recent interview with News Central, the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor and current Emir of Kano commended the economic direction of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting improvements in revenue generation and monetary policy coordination.
“In terms of monetary policy and stability, I have nothing but commendation for the government,” Sanusi said.
He praised the administration for stabilising the macroeconomic environment through improved debt servicing and a reduced fiscal deficit.
However, he cautioned that the quality of fiscal spending remains a concern. “We’re still spending too much money on government—on the cost of governance, too many political appointees, too many officers,” Sanusi remarked, stressing that without a reduction in wasteful expenditure, Nigeria risks slipping back into a debt trap.
The Emir stressed that while increased revenue is a step forward, it is not enough. “If we do not improve the quality of spending and put a rein on expenditure, we’re going to continue borrowing,” he warned.
Sanusi also criticised the recent policy shift towards large-scale food importation, describing it as counterproductive to local agriculture.
“I know it was driven by a desire to bring down food prices, but it is, in the end, very damaging to domestic production and producer prices,” he explained.
Instead, he called for renewed focus on the agricultural value chain, urging the government to invest in sustainable food production systems that benefit local farmers and ensure long-term food security.
“Hopefully, we will get back on track with reforms in the agricultural sector—fixing the value chain and relying on domestic production to feed the nation,” he said.
Despite his criticisms, Sanusi reaffirmed his support for the broader direction of the Tinubu administration.
“All in all, I think I would say 70 to 80 percent of what the government has done and the direction it is on, I support.”
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His remarks offer a rare but measured endorsement, combining praise with caution, and reflect growing calls for responsible governance amid Nigeria’s ongoing economic recovery.
