Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II is a prominent Nigerian economist, banker, and traditional ruler. He served as the Emir of Kano and has made significant contributions in public service, academia, and traditional leadership. Below is a detailed account of his life:
Biography
- Full Name: Sanusi Lamido Aminu Sanusi
- Title: Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II
- Date of Birth: July 31, 1961
- Place of Birth: Kano, Nigeria
Early Life and Education
Sanusi was born into the Fulani Torobe clan of the Sullubawa, a prominent royal family in Kano. His grandfather, Muhammadu Sanusi I, served as the Emir of Kano from 1953 to 1963.
He began his education in Kano before moving to prestigious schools.
- Primary Education: St. Anne’s Primary School, Kano.
- Secondary Education: King’s College, Lagos.
- Higher Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
- Postgraduate studies in Development Economics at the University of Khartoum, Sudan.
- Studied Islamic Law and Jurisprudence extensively, reflecting his dual expertise in economics and Islamic traditions.
Career
Banking and Finance:
Sanusi’s career began in academia as a lecturer in economics at ABU. He later transitioned into banking, where he rose to prominence:
- Held senior roles at United Bank for Africa (UBA) and First Bank of Nigeria.
- Appointed as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2009 by late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
- He was removed as the CBN Governor by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014 over allegations of financial impropriety.
- He implemented significant banking reforms, including a crackdown on financial mismanagement in Nigerian banks.
- Awarded the Global Central Bank Governor of the Year by The Banker Magazine in 2011.
Traditional Leadership:
- In 2014, Sanusi ascended the throne as the 14th Emir of Kano, following the death of his grand-uncle, Ado Bayero.
- As Emir, he was a vocal advocate for social reforms, focusing on education, women’s rights, and economic development.
- Known for challenging conservative societal norms, which occasionally put him at odds with political authorities.
Post-Emirate Activities:
- Sanusi Lamido was dethroned as the Emir of Kano on March 9, 2020, by the Kano State Government under Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. His successor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, ascended to the position as the Emir of Kano after he was elected in March 2023, marking a significant change in the emirate’s leadership.
- Subsequently appointed as the Khalifa (Leader) of the Tijaniyyah Sufi Order in Nigeria, a significant Islamic spiritual role.
Relationships
Sanusi Lamido, the former Emir of Kano, is married to a woman named Sa’adatu Sanusi, and they have children together. However, specific details about their marriage and the number of children are not widely publicized. He has generally kept his family matters private, focusing instead on his public roles and responsibilities.
Net Worth
While his exact net worth is undisclosed, Sanusi’s wealth stems from his successful banking career, traditional leadership roles, and investments. His influence extends beyond financial metrics, as he remains a respected global thought leader.
Legacy and Influence
Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II is celebrated for his intellect, reformist zeal, and advocacy for justice and equity in governance and society. He continues to be a prominent figure in both Nigerian and global discourse.
