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Sanusi urges professionals to reject corruption, embrace business ethics
By Hadiza Yusuf
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has advised Nigerian professionals to seek prosperity through lawful business ventures rather than engaging in corrupt practices, stressing that public office should be a platform for service and not personal wealth accumulation.
Sanusi made the remarks on Thursday during the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria and the inauguration of its Kano State Chapter.
He emphasized that professionals must take the lead in rebuilding ethical values in both public and private institutions, noting that integrity is essential for national growth and development.
“People can earn wealth without engaging in corruption. People can succeed financially without violating the law. Contracts can be awarded without demanding kickbacks. Infrastructure can be developed without anyone profiting illegally,” he stated.
According to the Emir, corruption flourishes when public officials view government positions as opportunities for personal gain rather than avenues to serve citizens.
“If your goal is to make money, then go into business. The civil service is not a place for wealth creation, and neither is government. Public office exists to serve the people,” he said.
Sanusi further called for the restoration of ethical principles within governance and the civil service, arguing that the country’s progress has been hindered by declining standards of discipline and accountability.
Reflecting on the past, he noted that the civil service was more effective when permanent secretaries played a significant role in preserving order, continuity, and compliance with established regulations.
“There was a reason they were known as permanent secretaries. They provided stability in ministries, ensured procedures were respected, and often resisted unlawful directives from political leaders,” he explained.
The Emir observed that various reforms over the years weakened the structure of the civil service, reducing institutional memory and efficiency. He therefore urged a return to professionalism and strong administrative standards.
He also encouraged members of ICSAN to expand their impact beyond corporate organizations and contribute to strengthening ethical leadership within public institutions.
“This institute has an important responsibility. I hope its members working in banks, corporations, and government ministries will become role models of integrity and help revive ethical values nationwide,” he said.
Sanusi maintained that transparent and corruption-free governance is attainable if citizens and public officials embrace honesty, discipline, and professionalism.
Earlier, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of ICSAN, Uto Ukpanah, stated that effective governance remains the bedrock of national development and long-term progress.
She noted that governance significantly influences outcomes across different sectors, stressing that sustainable development cannot be achieved without strong institutions and accountability mechanisms.
“In today’s fast-changing and interconnected world, governance has become more important than ever. The quality of governance often determines the quality of results achieved,” she said.
Ukpanah added that professionals involved in governance must uphold transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in both public and private organizations.
“As Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, we serve as custodians of governance systems, advisers to leadership, and protectors of institutional integrity. Our role is to ensure that organizations not only survive but also grow responsibly and sustainably,” she stated.
She further described the inauguration of the Kano State Chapter as a significant milestone aimed at promoting a stronger culture of good governance throughout the region.