The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has expressed concerns over the quality of leadership in Nigeria, stating that the country has been plagued by incompetent leaders. He made this statement at the second edition of the Kano International Poetry Festival, KAPFEST, organized by the Creative Wednesday Initiative.

According to the Emir, good governance is crucial to salvaging the country from its current state. He emphasized that the quality of leadership is directly linked to the country’s progress, saying, “You rise and fall with the quality of your leadership, and Nigeria has had lousy leadership for a long time.” The Emir also criticized the tendency to focus on religious and tribal discussions, rather than addressing more pressing issues such as artificial intelligence and climate change.

In comparison to other countries, the Emir noted that Nigeria is still mired in debates that are reminiscent of the 1960s, including discussions about ethnicity and religion. He urged the youth to take charge and effect change, stating that they have the power to retire the old guard and take over the country.

The Emir also commended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidies, stating that it was a necessary step to prevent the country from going bankrupt. He argued that subsidizing fuel consumption was unsustainable, as it benefited refineries in Europe rather than Nigeria’s own economy. The Emir suggested that the funds spent on subsidies could have been better utilized to develop Nigeria’s refining capabilities.

The Emir’s statements highlight the need for effective leadership and a shift in focus towards addressing the country’s pressing challenges. With Nigeria facing numerous development challenges, the emphasis on good governance and strategic decision-making is likely to resonate with many citizens. As the country continues to navigate its development trajectory, the role of leadership and the need for a forward-looking approach will remain critical to its progress.