Plateau
People
Plateau State, the twelfth largest state in Nigeria, is centrally located within the country. Originally part of Benue-Plateau State during the civil war, it was later split into separate states. General Yakubu Gowon’s military administration further divided Nigeria into nineteen states in 1976, leading to the creation of Plateau State on February 3, 1976, by the Murtala Mohammed Regime.
The state’s capital, Jos, derived its name from the original ‘Gwosh,’ which was mispronounced as ‘Jos’ by the settling Hausa people who transformed it into a trading hub. Plateau State is characterized by the Jos Plateau, a mountainous region in its north with captivating rock formations. Occupying 30,913 square kilometers in North Central Nigeria, Plateau State shares borders with Kaduna, Nassarawa, Benue, and Taraba States. In 1996, Nasarawa State was carved out of Plateau State by Sani Abacha’s military regime. Known as “The Home of Peace and Tourism,” Plateau State boasts a population of around 3.5 million people.
Culture
Plateau State is culturally diverse, with seventeen Local Government Areas and approximately 40 ethnic groups. While each ethnic group has its language, the Hausa language is widely spoken as a medium of communication. Predominantly agrarian, these ethnic groups share similar cultural and traditional practices. The Berom, one of the largest ethnic groups, spans four local government areas, including Jos North, Jos South, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom. In addition to indigenous groups, Plateau State has attracted settlers from various parts of Nigeria, including the Igbo, Yoruba, Ibibio, Annang, Efik, Ijaw, and Bini. Christianity is the predominant religion in the state. Plateau State boasts a rich cultural heritage, with artifacts dating back to the Nok culture, one of Nigeria’s earliest iron smelting cultures. The National Museum in Jos houses a collection of traditional Nigerian architecture, while the Jos Wildlife Safari Park and Zoological Gardens showcase the region’s biodiversity. Plateau State hosts several festivals, including the Irigwe New Year Celebration, PusdungFestival, Pan Cultural Festival, and Kulere Festival, highlighting the cultural diversity of the state. Natural attractions such as Asop Falls, Kura Falls, Wase Rock, and Kerang Volcanic Mountain add to the state’s tourism appeal.
Economy
Plateau State is renowned for its favorable climate, making it conducive for agricultural activities. The state produces a wide range of crops, including cotton, groundnuts, rice, Irish potatoes, maize, and soybeans. Additionally, Acha (a grain known as “hungry rice”) and millet are important cash crops, while yams, sorghum, corn, potatoes, cowpeas, rice, fruits, and vegetables are staple foods. Fulani herdsmen also graze their cattle on the tsetse-free plateau, contributing to the dairy industry.
Plateau State is one of the most significant mining areas in Nigeria, particularly known for its tin and columbite deposits. Tin mining has a long history in the region, with operations concentrated in and around the city of Jos. The state’s tin is smelted outside Jos and then exported, contributing significantly to the economy. Other minerals mined in the state include tantalite, kaolin, and gemstones. The state is often referred to as “The Home of Peace and Tourism” due to its scenic landscapes, and natural attractions. Tourist destinations such as the Jos Plateau, wildlife reserves, waterfalls (such as Asop Falls and Kura Falls), and rock formations (including Wase Rock and Kerang Volcanic Mountain) attract visitors from within Nigeria and abroad. The state also hosts various festivals throughout the year, showcasing its rich cultural and religious diversity.
The state has a budding manufacturing sector, with industries producing goods such as textiles, processed food and beverages, furniture, and construction materials. Jos, the state capital, serves as a hub for manufacturing activities, contributing to local employment and economic growth.
Plateau State’s economy also includes a thriving services sector, encompassing trade, transportation, education, healthcare, and hospitality. The city of Jos serves as a commercial center, hosting markets, banks, hotels, and other service-oriented businesses.
Politics
Politics in Plateau State has undergone significant transformations, shaped by the interplay of diverse political parties and administrations. Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, Plateau State has witnessed a succession of governors representing various political affiliations. Solomon Daushep Lar, the first civilian governor after the military era, laid the groundwork for democratic governance under the Social Democratic Party (SDP
As a region with diverse ethnic groups and historical complexities, politics in Plateau State often reflects the interplay of these factors. Inter-ethnic tensions and occasional outbreaks of violence have been significant features of the political landscape, particularly during election periods. However, there have also been concerted efforts by political leaders and stakeholders to foster peace, reconciliation, and dialogue among different communities.
Joshua Dariye, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), served as governor of Plateau State from 1999 to 2007. Jonah Jang, also from the PDP, succeeded Dariye, governing from 2007 to 2015. In 2015, Simon Lalong of the All-Progressives Congress (APC) was elected governor, his tenure ended in 2023. Caleb Mutfwang was sworn in 2023 as the newly elected governor of the state under the party of PDP.
pcl. State Performance Index
The pcl. State Performance Index provides a comprehensive assessment of Abia State's overall performance, combining primary survey data with data from credible sources. In summary, Abia State achieved a PSPI Score of -0.32, ranking 36th out of 37 states with a BBB rating, indicating Under Performance.
Summary of Analysis
Abia State’s assessment reveals a sub-optimal utilisation of its socioeconomic potential, compounded by the pessimistic perspectives voiced by its citizens in our survey. This combined evaluation results in Abia State receiving a BB rating, indicating “under-performance,” and securing the 36th overall ranking. Abia State requires significant improvement across all other indicators except for literacy rate and the capital expenditure to budget ratio. Additionally, effective management of citizens’ perceptions of performance is crucial. Abia State should prioritise strengthening public institutions, investing in infrastructure, and fostering human capital development.
Outlook for Plateau State: Positive
The outlook for Abia State remains positive, contingent upon several key factors:
1. Political Shift: The recent election victory of Mr Alex Otti from the Labour Party heralds a promising change in Abia State’s political landscape. The public’s optimism suggests a heightened focus on people-centric governance, potentially translating into improved overall administration.
2. Private Sector Expertise: Governor Alex Otti’s background in the private sector, notably as a seasoned banker, injects valuable expertise into the state’s leadership. While promising, potential conflicts with the public service require careful management to ensure effective collaboration and governance.
3. Innovative Local Governance: A groundbreaking shift in local governance sees accomplished individuals and former military leaders appointed as mayors, a departure from traditional political appointments. While not constitutionally mandated, this innovative approach aims to engage elites in government, fostering efficient local administration and promising prosperity.
4. Infrastructural Drive: The prioritisation of major road projects, including the Aba-Port Harcourt road constructed by Julius Berger, underscores the commitment to transformative infrastructure. Well-connected roads are vital for trade and hold the potential to drive holistic state development.
5. Resource Optimisation: Abia State possesses untapped resources, including gas reserves and a skilled workforce. Effective utilisation of these assets is a key driver for growth and could significantly impact the state’s economic outlook.
While the current positive outlook is a good starting point for Abia state, it is crucial to recognise and confront specific challenges that have the potential to hinder further progress. These challenges include:
1. Early Politicking for the Next Elections: Due to the Labour Party movement in the Southeast and the need for the ruling party at the centre to gain more grounds, politicians and leaders in Abia might become preoccupied with preparing for the next elections soon after taking office. This early focus on political campaigns and securing future positions can divert attention and resources away from governance and addressing the immediate needs of the state’s residents. It may result in less effective governance and slower progress on important issues.
2. Ongoing Agitation in the Southeast: The Southeast region of Nigeria has experienced agitation and unrest in recent years, with various groups and movements expressing their grievances and demands. If not well managed, these ongoing tensions and protests could disrupt peace and stability in Abia State. It might create an environment of uncertainty that hampers economic activities, investments, and overall development efforts. Therefore, effectively addressing and managing these regional tensions is essential for continued progress in the state
Recommendations for Sustainable Progress
To ensure sustainable progress and growth and move Abia State to a positive outlook, the following recommendations should be considered:
1. Enhanced citizen Engagement: Abia State should prioritise engaging with its citizens through regular town hall meetings, consultations with key stakeholders, and transparent communication. Involving citizens in policymaking is essential for effective governance.
2. Political Solution for Agitation: The state government should engage with the federal government to find a lasting political solution to the ongoing agitation in the Southeast, fostering peace and stability.
3. Infrastructure Revolution: Commence an infrastructure revolution in the state using creative means such as concessions, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and project finance. This will enhance the state’s physical and economic development.
4. Strengthen Public Institutions: Pay attention to the traditional institutions and public service to ensure effective service delivery for the benefit of the public. Strengthening institutions is crucial for governance and development.
5. Maximise Domestic Trade: Improve tax reforms, enhance market access and development, and invest in transportation infrastructure to maximise opportunities for domestic trade. This will stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.
6. Inter-State Collaboration for Progress: Collaborate with other state governments across Nigeria, drawing lessons from states like Akwa Ibom, Jigawa, Kwara, Gombe, and Kogi in various areas such as infrastructure development, job creation, financial inclusion, public institution strengthening, and the preservation of social and cultural values. Learning from the experiences of successful states can help Abia State bridge gaps and achieve its development goals.
By implementing these recommendations and focusing on the identified areas of improvement, Abia State can further solidify its position as a prosperous and stable state within Nigeria, contributing to its continuous growth and development.
Fact Sheet
Internally Generated Revenue
18.65 B
Y-o-Y
-5%
Per Capital Income
943,526.99
Y-o-Y
10
PMS Price
643.13
Y-o-Y
248%
Budget Size
160.52 B
Y-o-Y
9
Capital Expenditure
45.42 B
Y-o-Y
4%
Operating Expenditure
54.88B
Y-o-Y
1
Inflation Rate
29%
Y-o-Y
32%
Unemployment Rate
50.10%
Y-o-Y
5
Poverty Rate
10.7%
Y-o-Y
-65%
Infant Mortality Rate
115
Y-o-Y
37%
Literacy Rate
89
Y-o-Y
-7%
FAAC Allocation
82.95 B
Y-o-Y
35%
Data Source
National Bureau of Statistics:
▪ FAAC Allocation – 2022
▪ Inflation rate – 2022 – 2023
▪ PMS Price – 2022/23 Q4
▪ GDP – 2021 & 2022
▪ Mineral resources The World Bank
▪ Ease of doing business report
Kingmakers State of States Report
▪ Population
▪ Employment rate
▪ Mortality rate
▪ Literacy rate
Statista
▪ Unemployment Rate – 2020
NGF Digital Repository
▪ Capital and Operating Expenditure
▪ IGR
▪ Domestic and Foreign Debts
State Government Websites
▪ Budget Sizes – 2022 & 2023
Entering your name, email address and clicking “Submit” means you agree to receive updates about the work we do at pSPI. Phillips consulting will never spam you. Please, click here to learn more about how we protect your privacy.
Join us in shaping your state's future! Participate in PCL surveys to contribute to the State Performance Index report. Your input drives positive change.
Error: Contact form not found.