๐๐ ๐ณ๐ฌ, ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ปโ๐ ๐๐๐ผ๐ฝ ๐ท๐ผ๐ถ๐ป๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ด๐ผ๐ผ๐ฑ ๐ด๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ป๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ โ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ ๐จ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ถ
Former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress and Chief Convener of the Big Tent Coalition Shadow Government, Prof. Pat Utomi, has said that turning 70 will not stop him from participating in peaceful protests aimed at promoting good governance and accountability in Nigeria.
Utomi made this known during an interview where he reflected on Nigeriaโs leadership challenges, institutional weaknesses and the need for citizens to remain actively involved in shaping the nationโs future.
Speaking on the countryโs development hurdles, the political economist identified poor leadership and weak institutions as major factors slowing Nigeriaโs progress. According to him, strong institutions remain the backbone of economic performance and national growth, stressing that nations that fail to build resilient systems often struggle with sustainable development.
He explained that beyond leadership, the quality of human capital also plays a vital role in national advancement. Utomi noted that countries that invest heavily in education, skills and innovation tend to create stronger economies, while those that neglect human capacity remain trapped in cycles of poverty.
The professor further highlighted entrepreneurship as another key driver of development, saying that wealth creation through innovation and enterprise is essential for reducing unemployment and improving living standards. He warned that when policy decisions discourage creativity and private sector growth, economic progress becomes difficult.
Utomi also emphasised the importance of policy direction, noting that decisions made by leaders determine whether a nation moves forward or remains stagnant. He argued that policies must be forward-looking and inclusive to address the complex challenges facing Nigeria today.
On the role of culture and values, the elder statesman said leadership character shapes the tone of society, adding that ethical leadership helps build public trust and national unity. According to him, when leaders fail to uphold strong moral values, institutions weaken and citizens lose confidence in governance.
Reflecting on his 70th birthday, Utomi reaffirmed his commitment to civic engagement, stating that age would not prevent him from speaking out or joining movements that advocate transparency and responsible leadership.
He called on young Nigerians to remain hopeful and actively participate in democratic processes, urging citizens to demand accountability from leaders while contributing positively to national development.
