The Big Tent, a political coalition led by Professor Pat Utomi, has raised alarm over what it described as Nigeria’s descent into an “existential crisis,” driven by deepening poverty, insecurity, institutional decay, and failed leadership. Speaking at a media briefing, Utomi stressed that the country is in urgent need of civic action and responsible leadership to prevent further deterioration, urging Nigerians to confront the harsh realities facing the nation.
Utomi criticized the political elite for their indifference to the suffering of ordinary citizens, pointing out that 75% of rural Nigerians live in chronic poverty, and over 30 million people face severe food insecurity during the current lean season. He blamed the collapse of the rural economy on poor governance, noting that while farmers struggle to survive, government officials remain preoccupied with luxury and propaganda. He proposed key reforms such as modernizing land tenure laws, involving universities in agricultural extension work, and investing in agro-processing clusters.
Highlighting the connection between poverty and rising insecurity, Utomi advocated for decentralised policing to allow local governments more control over security. He also emphasized the need to unlock regional economic potential—like cocoa in the South-West and lithium in the North-Central—through private-sector-driven development, with the government playing a facilitative role rather than being the central actor.
