“Age or Status Should Never Stop You” — Emir Sanusi Explains Return to University at Level 200

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has explained why he enrolled as an undergraduate student at Northwest University Kano, where he is currently studying Common Law.

Emir Sanusi, who is a Level 200 student in the university’s Bachelor of Laws programme in Common and Sharia Law, was recently spotted attending lectures alongside other undergraduates, sparking widespread reactions online.

Speaking on his decision, the former Central Bank of Nigeria governor said his long-standing interest in law motivated his return to undergraduate studies.

“I have a PhD in Sharia, but I have an interest in studying law, specifically Common Law. That is why I took up this opportunity when it came,” he said.

The emir stressed that neither age nor social status should be a barrier to learning, encouraging people to seize every opportunity to acquire knowledge.

“I always say that age or status should never be something that prevents a person from seeking knowledge. Whenever there is an opportunity to further one’s education, it should be taken,” Sanusi said.

He also spoke about the central role of law in governance and society, noting that justice and order depend on legal knowledge.

“The entire structure of any country cannot function without knowledge of Sharia and law. Without law and order, those with power will do whatever they like, while the weak will have no rights and nowhere to seek justice. In fact, our entire life depends on the law,” he explained.

According to him, the legal training would also be directly relevant to his responsibilities as emir, as people regularly approach the emirate to seek guidance and intervention on disputes and social issues.

“In our work at the emirate, people come to us regularly, and this course we are studying will also be helpful,” he added.

Sanusi noted that this was not the first time he had been a Level 200 student, recalling that he was at a similar academic stage at Ahmadu Bello University in 1978.

“The main lesson I believe people will take from this is that your age, your status, or your position should not prevent you from sitting down to seek knowledge,” he said.

Reflecting on his academic journey, the emir said his PhD in Sharia, obtained in Sudan, later proved valuable during his time as CBN governor.

“One never knows where their education will be of benefit,” he noted.

A fellow student, Rufai Mustapha, speaking on behalf of the class, said Sanusi’s presence had sent a powerful message to younger students.

“This shows that regardless of his status, education and rank, he came and sat with us in class as a student seeking knowledge. Therefore, the younger ones have no excuse not to pursue their studies,” Mustapha said.

Northwest University Kano confirmed that the emir was admitted into its Law programme at Level 200. Photos and videos of Sanusi attending lectures have continued to circulate online, drawing mixed reactions and reigniting conversations about lifelong learning and leadership by example.