Poverty and Illiteracy in North‑West: “Prioritise Actions Over Announcements,” Says Emir Sanusi

By Hadiza Yusuf

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, urged leaders to focus on concrete action rather than rhetoric, citing the persistent poverty, educational deficits, and weak health services that continue to affect millions in Nigeria’s North‑West.

During a high‑level policy dialogue in Kano on Wednesday, Sanusi warned that without confronting the region’s harsh realities, progress would remain sluggish. “We must tell ourselves the truth,” he said, emphasizing that years of interventions have not lifted many communities out of deep poverty or improved access to quality education and healthcare.

He cautioned against a culture of empty promises, urging leaders to avoid substituting announcements for real work. “Leaders must resist substituting announcements for action,” he added, calling for policies that translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives.

The Emir stressed that tackling poverty and inequality requires sincere leadership and sustained investment in critical sectors such as education and health.

Vice President advocates Universal Child Benefit

At the same event, Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima—represented by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin—proposed a Universal Child Benefit to support vulnerable families. “The child is the most honest measure of any society. When a child is hungry, the future is hungry,” he said, noting that direct support could improve child nutrition, keep children in school, and reduce child labour and early marriage.

UNICEF, too

UNICEF representative Wafaa Saeed highlighted the need for stronger implementation of policies, pointing out that inequality in access to basic services remains a major challenge in the region. She called for enhanced social protection systems to help families cope with economic hardship, insecurity, and climate‑related challenges.

By the end of the meeting, North‑West governors agreed that poverty alleviation must be treated as an urgent priority. They pledged to increase funding, strengthen coordination, and expand social protection programmes across the region.

Vanguard News

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