I Was The Best Central Bank Governor Four Years Out Of Five – Muhammad Sanusi II

Muhammad Sanusi II has said he earned his position as a monarch, noting that his outstanding work and rise in the banking sector was a precursor to the throne.

On his ascension to the throne, Sanusi said: “It was what I’ve always wanted to be. As a Muslim, we believe that God decides who will be emir, then He creates a situation such that circumstances conspire to lead to that predetermined result.

“It’s not for me to say but the kingmakers look at a number of qualities. I spent my life as a successful banker. I taught economics at the university. I worked at an investment bank.

“I was chief risk officer in the two largest banks in the country. I was the CEO of the oldest and largest commercial bank in Nigeria, First Bank. I was the best central bank governor four years out of five. Why would I feel guilty about inheriting privilege? I have earned my stars in every competitive environment.

“I’m the 57th king, but I’m the 14th Fulani emir and the 13th in my line. I grew up here. My father was a crown prince but he was a career diplomat, so I was brought up by a guardian. I have the benefit of having been in and out of this culture, knowing all the traditions of the palace, but also mixing in a more heterogeneous setting.

“It’s important for us to retain our history, to retain our roots. A lot of my writings are progressive. I’ve been involved in such debates as why it is OK to cut off the hand of a man who stole a goat but allow a governor or a minister who stole millions to get away with it.”