Pat Utomi Reflects on Yar’Adua's Impact on Nigeria

Professor of Political Economy Pat Utomi expressed that Nigeria would have taken a different political and economic direction had former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua survived his illness and completed his tenure. Utomi made this assertion during an interview on Csuite Cafe, where he characterized Yar’Adua as a patriotic leader genuinely interested in improving Nigeria.

Yar’Adua passed away on May 5, 2010, after serving approximately three years as president, and was succeeded by his Vice-President, Goodluck Jonathan. Utomi recounted a meeting with Yar’Adua at the Presidential Villa, where the late president attempted to persuade him to join his administration as a minister.

Utomi declined, believing he could contribute more effectively from outside government. He noted Yar’Adua's willingness to engage with his network to build the country together, reflecting a spirit of leadership that Nigeria needs.

Utomi later provided Yar’Adua with a list of seven Nigerians he believed could significantly contribute to his administration.