Emir Sanusi Urges Nigerians to Diversify Investments, Unveils New Halal Fund

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has urged Nigerians, particularly individuals and business owners, to diversify their financial portfolios and embrace ethical investment opportunities to protect their wealth and secure their financial future.

Sanusi made the call on Monday during the unveiling of the UTLAM Halal Fund and the commissioning of the Kano offices of UTL Trust Management Services Limited and UTL Asset Management Limited.

The fund provides investors with access to professionally managed investment opportunities that comply with Islamic principles, offering an alternative to conventional financial products.

In a statement issued by the media office of UTL Trust Management Services Limited, the monarch encouraged Nigerians to look beyond traditional savings and loan accounts by exploring investment and insurance products that could help preserve and grow their wealth.

He stressed that financial planning was essential not only for individuals and their families but also for those seeking to establish a lasting legacy.

Sanusi noted that many businesses in Kano had suffered significant losses from incidents such as fire outbreaks, theft and sabotage. Some enterprises, he said, had been forced to shut down because they lacked adequate financial protection and access to services that could support recovery after such setbacks.

He argued that greater access to appropriate investment and insurance products could help business owners manage risks and strengthen their financial security.

Speaking at the event, UTL Chairman, Shamsuddeen Usman, said the establishment of the company’s Kano office was intended to make its services more accessible to residents and businesses across the state.

He explained that the company was expanding its presence in the region to bring financial management and investment services closer to customers.

Usman disclosed that UTL had introduced Sharia-compliant financial products for clients in Kano, adding that the offerings had been reviewed and approved by the company’s Sharia advisory board.

The services include trust management, assistance with wills and estate planning, and investment opportunities structured in accordance with Islamic financial principles.

He said the company hoped to help individuals and institutions manage their assets more effectively while meeting the needs of customers who prefer financial products that align with their religious beliefs.

The Executive Director of UTL Trust Management Services Limited, Omotoro Olaide, described the opening of the Kano office as an important step in the company’s efforts to expand its services across Northern Nigeria.

The introduction of the UTLAM Halal Fund is expected to provide another investment option for Nigerians seeking professionally managed financial products that comply with Islamic principles.

Such products generally avoid interest-based transactions and investments in activities prohibited under Islamic finance guidelines.

Sanusi’s remarks highlight the importance of financial diversification, risk management and wealth preservation, particularly for business owners exposed to unexpected losses.

The initiative also reflects wider efforts to deepen financial inclusion by providing Nigerians with investment options that accommodate different financial needs and religious preferences.

By encouraging individuals and businesses to explore suitable investment and insurance products, the Emir said Nigerians could improve their financial security and build lasting wealth for future generations.