From Radical Student to Top Economist: The Academic Journey of Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II

A personal anecdote shared by His Highness Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II (Sarkin Kano) offers insight into his early academic aspirations and the pivotal turn of events that shaped his career as one of Nigeria's leading economists.

In a recollection circulated by Aliyu M. Ahmad, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria detailed his initial application process to Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, where his primary ambition was to study Law. Economics was listed as his second choice.

When admissions were released, Sanusi found he had not met the grade requirements for Law. He was offered admission to B.A. French as his first option and B.Sc. Economics as his second.

Determined to study Law, Sanusi attempted to appeal to the then-Dean of the Faculty for admission via the discretionary "Grey Area" list. The encounter, however, took an unexpected turn rooted in the campus political climate:

"The dean told me that, Kongo Campus has no room for irresponsible radicals like me, and if he gave me admission, and I tried anything, they will expel me."

Faced with a clear warning against his activist tendencies, Sanusi made the pragmatic decision to enroll in the Social Science (Economics) program, deciding it was "the safest thing" while allowing him to continue his involvement in student demonstrations and campus politics.

At the time, Sanusi had no inkling that this forced pivot would lead to a distinguished career in the very field he reluctantly accepted. His journey ultimately saw him become a world-renowned economist, a respected bank CEO, and eventually, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)—effectively the nation's No. 1 economist.

The story stands as a powerful reminder of how unexpected changes in direction can lead to unforeseen professional success and a fulfillment of destiny.