The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, delivered a sharp critique of Nigeria’s leadership on Saturday, stating that the country has suffered from “lousy leaders” for far too long and remains bogged down in “pettiness.”
Speaking at the second Kano International Poetry Festival (KAPFEST), organized by the Poetic Wednesdays Initiative (PWI), the Emir lamented that Nigeria is still consumed by outdated discussions on tribal and religious differences while other nations tackle pressing global issues like climate change and artificial intelligence.
“You rise and fall with the quality of your leadership, and Nigeria has had lousy leadership for a long time,” he said, adding, “In most parts of this country, you look at the people leading you and ask, ‘How did we end up here?’”
He criticized the legislature for wasting time on trivial matters instead of addressing significant challenges.
“While the world is moving forward, we are still stuck in debates from the 1960s—Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Northern, Southern, Christian, Muslim,” he remarked.
The Emir also issued a rallying call to Nigerian youths, urging them to take charge of the country’s future.
“With determination, the youth can easily retire the old leaders who have mismanaged this nation and take over,” he said.
He further warned about the dangers of excessive borrowing and reckless government spending, cautioning that it could lead to severe economic consequences in the future.
Earlier, Nasiba Babale, PWI’s Creative Director, highlighted the festival’s theme, “Poetry in a Time of Crisis,” emphasizing the role of poetry and art in advocating for peace and addressing the challenges facing Northern Nigeria.
She encouraged poets to use their voices as tools for healing and social change. The festival, which attracted participants from across Nigeria and beyond, served as a platform to explore how art can inspire dialogue and transformation in turbulent times.
