The Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, has raised serious concerns over the worsening state of Nigeria’s economy, warning that every major sector is now in decline and that the country is facing unprecedented hardship.

The monarch made his remarks through his representative, labour and human rights activist Dr. Comrade Auwalu Mudi Yakasai (Danmalikin Kano), at the 51st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and training workshop of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), held at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State.

“Every sector of human endeavour in Nigeria is battered. The economy, social life, education, health — all are going down,” the Emir lamented.

Citing the soaring cost of living, especially rising fuel prices, the Emir warned that the daily reality of ordinary Nigerians is growing more difficult. He called attention to the decline of education, healthcare, and social welfare, describing them as critical indicators of the nation’s systemic failure.

He also criticized the current state of Nigeria’s labour movement, saying it has lost the strength and unity it once had.

“In those days, the labour movement was the vanguard of the struggle. They worked hand in hand with student unions, market women, religious leaders. But today, it seems labour has lost its voice,” he said.

Addressing SSANU leaders directly, the Emir urged a revival of the founding principles of trade unionism — Cooperation, Contestation, and Confrontation — as key strategies for protecting workers’ rights in difficult times.

“You start with cooperation. If that fails, you move to contestation. And if that doesn’t work, then you confront. Confrontation takes many forms — strike action is just one of them,” he explained.

The Emir’s representative commended SSANU President Mohammed Haruna Ibrahim for his transparent and inclusive style of leadership. He also praised the intellectual growth and capacity of modern union leaders, noting that they are now more refined and influential than in the past.

 

“Labour leaders now travel by air. That wasn’t the case in our time. But such privileges must translate into improved welfare for the members,” he said.

 

He described the title “Comrade” as one of honour and sacrifice.

 

“Comrade is a title I cherish most. It cannot be bought — it is earned through dedication to the struggle,” he added.

 

Finally, he encouraged visiting SSANU members to explore the city of Kano, describing it as peaceful, hospitable, and rich in cultural heritage, while urging other unions to emulate SSANU’s commitment to transparency, unity, and good governance.

 

The Emir’s comments come at a time of widespread economic distress and growing public dissatisfaction, as Nigerians grapple with rising inflation, weakened public services, and a cost-of-living crisis.