A political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, has blamed Nigeria’s deteriorating state on the failure of the country’s elite class, saying their selfishness and lack of vision have plunged the nation into crisis.
Utomi stated this on Monday during a public lecture held in Lagos to commemorate the 2025 edition of the National Leadership Dialogue, where he spoke extensively on the collapse of institutions, insecurity, and widespread poverty in the country.
According to him, Nigeria is crumbling because those in positions of power have failed to serve the people and have instead focused on personal gain at the expense of national development.
He said, “Nigeria is not working today because the elite have failed the people. Our leaders are disconnected from the suffering masses, and every decision is driven by selfishness rather than a sense of duty.”
Utomi noted that the country’s current situation is the result of years of neglect, poor planning, and a leadership culture that rewards loyalty over competence. He said this has led to a breakdown in governance, the economy, and public trust.
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“We have leaders who think of the next election rather than the next generation. This is why our economy is struggling, our institutions are weak, and insecurity is rising across the country,” he added.
The former presidential candidate also criticized the political class for lacking ideological direction, stating that most Nigerian politicians are only interested in power and patronage.
Utomi called for urgent reforms in governance, including electoral integrity, public sector accountability, and youth inclusion in leadership. He warned that unless something changes, Nigeria risks further decline.
“We cannot keep recycling failure and expect progress. The people must begin to demand accountability and competence,” he said.
Utomi, who is also the convener of the National Consultative Front, said a new political movement must emerge—one that is built on transparency, service, and empathy.
He added that Nigeria’s potential remains huge, but without credible leadership and elite consensus on nation-building, the country may continue on a dangerous path.
The economist urged the younger generation not to give up on Nigeria but to rise and take ownership of the nation’s future through civic participation and advocacy for good governance.