The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called on the Nigerian government to implement economic policies that directly improve the welfare of citizens, stressing that the success of any policy should be measured by its impact on the lives of the people.

Speaking at a conference in Kano on Thursday, the revered monarch said Nigeria urgently requires policies that reduce poverty, improve living standards and promote inclusive economic growth, particularly in the face of the nation's current economic and political challenges.

Represented by the Danmadamin Kano and Professor of Economics at Bayero University, Kano, Abubakar Aliyu Sanusi, the Emir described the conference as timely, noting that the country is at a critical stage that demands thoughtful and people-centred leadership.

He emphasised that governments must place the well-being of citizens at the heart of economic decision-making.

"Economic policies should be assessed based on their impact on the welfare of citizens. Any economic policy that does not improve the welfare of the people is inherently ineffective," he said.

Sanusi also urged leaders to draw lessons from history, strengthen democratic institutions and uphold justice, warning that no nation can build a prosperous future without confronting unresolved issues from its past.

He identified insecurity, corruption, widespread poverty and inadequate infrastructure as some of Nigeria's most pressing challenges, calling for decisive actions to address them.

The monarch further appealed to political leaders to abandon self-serving politics and embrace governance rooted in competence, integrity and service to the people.

"Power-sharing should not only be about geographical rotation but about ensuring that credible, competent and compassionate leaders emerge to serve the people," he stated.

The Emir also urged Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious or political affiliations, to embrace unity, tolerance and collective responsibility in the task of nation-building.

While acknowledging the progress Nigeria has made since gaining independence, Sanusi observed that the country continues to face political instability, ethnic and religious divisions, insecurity and economic hardship, underscoring the need for visionary leadership and policies that place citizens' welfare above all else.