Prof. Pat Utomi Receives Glowing Tribute from PANDEF National Chairman @70

By Wilson Macaulay

Eminent political economist and public intellectual, Professor Pat Utomi, has received a glowing tribute from the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, as he marks his 70th birthday.

In a congratulatory message released to commemorate the milestone, Ambassador Igali described Prof. Utomi as a towering figure in Nigeria’s intellectual and democratic landscape, whose life has been devoted to the pursuit of truth, justice and national renewal.

The PANDEF National Chairman hailed the septuagenarian as a distinguished son of the Niger Delta who has consistently projected the region in positive light through his scholarship, advocacy and exemplary public conduct.

“Professor Pat Utomi’s life at 70 is a celebration of integrity, courage and unwavering patriotism. He has remained a voice of reason and reform in our national discourse, offering ideas and solutions anchored on values and deep reflection,” Igali stated.

He noted that Utomi’s contributions span academia, public service, entrepreneurship and civil society engagement. As founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL), Utomi has championed ethical leadership and institutional reform, mentoring a generation of Nigerians committed to transformational governance.

According to Igali, Utomi’s interventions in policy debates—particularly on economic reform, federalism, youth empowerment and inclusive governance—have enriched Nigeria’s democratic experience and strengthened the call for accountability in leadership.

“Through turbulent political seasons and economic uncertainties, Prof. Utomi has remained steadfast. His voice has never wavered in advocating for a Nigeria built on competence, equity and shared prosperity,” the PANDEF Chairman affirmed.

Igali further described Utomi as a courageous statesman who has never hesitated to speak truth to power, even when such positions demanded personal sacrifice. He emphasized that such principled consistency has earned him respect across political, ethnic and generational divides.

The PANDEF leader also highlighted Utomi’s deep connection to the Niger Delta, noting that his advocacy for balanced development and resource justice resonates strongly with the aspirations of oil-producing communities and the broader South-South region.

“As a proud son of the Niger Delta, Prof. Utomi has demonstrated that intellectual excellence and moral clarity can shape national conversations and influence positive change. He remains one of our finest ambassadors,” Igali added.

While celebrating the milestone, Ambassador Igali prayed for continued strength, sound health and renewed wisdom for the elder statesman, urging him to sustain his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

“At 70, Professor Pat Utomi’s legacy is not measured merely in years, but in impact. His life reminds us that nation-building requires courage, vision and steadfast commitment to higher ideals,” Igali concluded.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, the celebration of Prof. Utomi’s 70th birthday stands as a recognition of a life devoted to scholarship, advocacy and enduring service to the Nigerian nation.