The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has insisted that Nigeria’s top industrialists, Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu, are originally from Kano, dismissing claims that their success should be attributed to Lagos.
He made the remarks during the 60th anniversary celebration and inauguration of the Kano chapter of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN).
Sanusi stated that both businessmen were born and raised in Kano before expanding their commercial activities to Lagos, stressing that the city should be recognized as their true origin.
He added that Kano has a long-standing history as a major commercial hub, noting that it was once one of the largest cities in Africa and a key centre of trans-Saharan trade, which helped shape its entrepreneurial culture.
The Emir also used the occasion to reflect on governance in Nigeria, expressing concern over declining ethical standards in public institutions and the civil service.
He emphasized that public service should be rooted in integrity and service delivery rather than personal enrichment, calling for a revival of ethical values across government and private sectors.
Sanusi further urged professionals under ICSAN to champion ethical reforms and contribute to strengthening accountability in both public and private institutions.
He ended on a light note, encouraging participants to engage with Kano’s economy by patronizing local markets and contributing to the state’s economic growth.
