The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has recently brought attention to the issue of economic hardship in Nigeria, stating that many elites in the country lack a true understanding of poverty. Speaking at a public lecture in Abuja on Saturday, May 31, commemorating the 60th birthday of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Sanusi emphasized the need for economic managers and leaders to cultivate empathy.

Sanusi revealed that his own comprehension of poverty transformed significantly after he ascended the throne as Emir of Kano. "As an economist, former CBN Governor, I see the numbers. I did not know poverty until I became Emir," he stated. This personal experience highlighted the gap between statistical knowledge and the lived reality of impoverishment.

During his time as Emir, Sanusi described witnessing firsthand the dire conditions faced by many in rural areas. "And you go to the village and see the water they drink, the houses they live in, they two block classrooms without roofs," he recounted. These observations led him to question the priorities of the nation's leadership, asking, "Do we actually love the people or do we just love ruling over them? What are our priorities. We make overheads and underpasses for ourselves in the cities while there in the rural areas cannot reach hospitals."

The Emir passionately urged those in positions of leadership to develop empathy for the citizens they are responsible for leading. He noted the current crisis, stating, "We are in crisis, how do we get out should be our focus."

Beyond his specific remarks on the elite's understanding, Sanusi expressed serious concerns about the severe economic hardships confronting Nigerians. In this context, he praised the Kano state government for its initiative in providing fertilizers to farmers, calling for more such measures to address ongoing economic challenges.

Furthermore, Emir Sanusi addressed the controversy surrounding his previous comments on President Tinubu’s economic reforms. He clarified that his words had been misinterpreted, emphasizing his support for the Tinubu-led government’s policies while also acknowledging the sacrifices Nigerians were making due to past economic mismanagement.