Utomi advises African leaders to cultivate farmers’ mentality
Revered economist and former Presidential aspirant, Professor pat Utomi has advised African leaders to cultivate farmers’ mentality other than the hunters’ mentality which has stiffened growth in the continent.
Professor utomi explained that the famers’ mentality is a process of sowing which involves planning and eventually reaping while the hunters’ mentally is hinged on shooting down animals for the fun of it and sharing with friends.
The later according to Utomi, is what is largely practised in Africa which has not helped the continent to grow beyond its present situation despite the huge resources.
Utomi , made the statement on Friday, at the Pastors and Leaders Conference organised by The Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, Lagos. He spoke on the theme: “Leadership In Turbulent Times.”
“In times of uncertainty, leadership matter most especially during turbulence and it is during this period the strength of the leaders’ attributes is tested,” Utomi said.
“Nigeria’s recession problem is self-inflicted due to fail leadership. For many years we acted like drunks because of oil revenue generation, without properly saving for the rainy day.
“When we went to school, it was normal to school in Nigeria. Those who could not gain admission into the school were the ones who travelled abroad to school. But, now, because of the collapse of culture people send their children abroad because they are not sure of our school system.
“Lack of investors’ confidence coupled with our lifestyle and the purchasing power parity combined to give the dollar edge over the naira,” Utomi noted.
Prof. Utomi however advised that, for the country to get out of recession and to make significant progress thereafter, managers of the economy must exhibit certain attributes that includes; listening skills, goal oriented, team building and must empower the people among others.
