Ondo
People
Ondo State, established on February 3, 1976, from the former Western State during the regime of General Murtala Mohammed, occupies a significant position in southwestern Nigeria. Spanning approximately 15,000 square kilometers, the state is bordered by Edo and Delta states to the east, Ogun and Osun states to the west, Ekiti and Kogi states to the north, and the Bight of Benin of the Atlantic Ocean to the south. With a population of 3,441,924 people according to the 2006 census, Ondo State comprises eighteen (18) Local Government Areas, with Akure serving as both the capital city and the largest settlement. The state’s population is predominantly Yoruba, although it hosts other Nigerians and foreign nationals. Agriculture is the cornerstone of Ondo State’s economy, providing livelihoods for the majority of its inhabitants. Notable tourist attractions, such as the Owo Museum, Ipale IloroWaterfalls, Igbokoda Water Front, Oke Maria Hills, and Olumirin Waterfall, add to the state’s cultural and economic significance.
Culture
Ondo State boasts a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the Yoruba ethnic group and characterized by linguistic diversity. In addition to the predominant Yoruba language, various other languages such as Akure, Apoi, Idanre, Ijaw, Ikale, Ilaje, Ondo, Owo, and Akoko are spoken within the state. The cultural landscape is enriched by a multitude of festivals, including the Ariginya festival celebrated annually in Ikare-Akoko, which honors Ogun, the god of smithy and lord of Iron. These festivals serve as avenues for showcasing traditional customs, rituals, and art forms, preserving the cultural identity of the people of Ondo Stateand fostering social cohesion within communities.
Economy
The economy of Ondo State is multifaceted, with agriculture playing a pivotal role in driving growth and development. The state’s fertile land and favorable climatic conditions support the cultivation of a wide range of crops, including cash crops such as cocoa, oil palm, and rubber, as well as staple crops like maize, cassava, and vegetables. Ondo State is renowned for its contributions to the production of agricultural products in Nigeria, particularly poultry products and the cultivation of rice.
Furthermore, the state is experiencing urbanization and industrialization, with Akure emerging as a hub for manufacturing and commercial activities. The presence of industries such as food processing, textiles, cement production, automotive assembly, and pharmaceuticals contributes to job creation and economic diversification. The state government continues to implement policies and initiatives aimed at attracting investment, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering sustainable economic development across all sectors.
Politics
Politics in Ondo State, like in many parts of Nigeria, is dynamic and plays a crucial role in shaping the state’s governance and development. The state operates under a democratic system of government, with three branches – executive, legislative, and judiciary. Ondo State is further divided into three senatorial districts – Ondo North, Ondo Central, and Ondo South – each representing distinct constituencies within the state. The political landscape is characterized by various political parties competing for power and influence, with the All Progressives Congress (APC), People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and other smaller parties being prominent players in the state’s politics.
Ondo State has been led by various governors who have contributed to its governance and development over the years. Some of the notable past governors include Adekunle Ajasin of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), who served from 1979 to 1983; Michael Ajasin of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from 1992 to 1993; and Adebayo Adefarati of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) from 1999 to 2003. Others include Olusegun Agagu of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from 2003 to 2009, Olusegun Mimiko of the Labour Party (LP) from 2009 to 2017, and Rotimi Akeredolu of the All-Progressives Congress (APC) who assumed office in 2017 and died in 2023, Lucky Aiyedatiwa assumed office as the current governor on December 27, 2023, following the passing of Rotimi Akeredolu.
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 Ondo 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
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