Pat Utomi Advocates Age Limit for Political Leaders
‘I’m Too Old for Cabinet Roles’ — Utomi Reflects at 69
Renowned political economist and public policy expert, Professor Pat Utomi, has called for a generational transition in Nigeria’s political leadership, stressing that individuals over the age of 75 should take on advisory roles rather than contesting for executive positions.
Utomi made this statement on Wednesday during an interview on News Central Television, while speaking on the ongoing coalition movement under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform.
“I’m 69 years old, and I now consider myself too old to be a cabinet minister. I’ve given my children authority, that if by 75 they hear I’ve gone to any political meeting, they should arrest me and bring me home because I may have gone senile and forgotten what I promised them,” he said humorously, yet firmly.
A Call for Leadership Renewal
Ministers Should Be in Their 40s and 50s, Utomi Says
Utomi emphasized the need for a generational shift in Nigerian politics, advocating that executive offices be held by younger leaders in their forties and fifties, while the presidency could be reserved for individuals in their sixties.
“We should not have certain people of a certain age still running around. Yes, they may be capable, but it’s not fair to the next generation,” he argued.
He pointed out that while wisdom and experience are valuable, clinging to power at an advanced age stifles innovation and the growth of younger leaders who are better attuned to current realities.
Politicians Over 75 Should Serve as Nation-Building Elders
Advisory Roles, Not Executive Power
Utomi urged older politicians to embrace roles as “fathers of the nation,” contributing their wisdom through mentorship and strategic guidance rather than direct governance.
“Anybody who is over 75 running [for office], I think generally they should concern themselves with gathering the nation, advising, and showing the way,” he added.
His remarks come at a time of growing youth dissatisfaction with the political establishment and widespread calls for meaningful reforms that prioritize competence, innovation, and inclusivity.
Context: ADC’s Coalition and 2025 Political Realignments
Utomi’s comments are part of broader conversations within the ADC coalition, which is seeking to present a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 elections. The coalition aims to unite credible voices and groom younger leadership to break the dominance of traditional power blocs in Nigerian politics.
With figures like Utomi pushing for structural reform, Nigeria’s political landscape may be inching towards a more generationally balanced future.
