Ogun
People
Ogun State, situated in southwestern Nigeria, is known as the “Gateway to Nigeria” due to its historical significance as a major route for early European explorers and traders. Established on February 3rd, 1976, Ogun State is named after the Ogun River, which traverses it from north to south. Its strategic location bordering Lagos State to the south, Oyo and Osun states to the north, Ondo to the east, and the Republic of Benin to the west, positions it as a key access route to the expansive market of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). With Abeokuta as its capital and largest city, Ogun State encompasses twenty (20) Local Government Areas and is home to a diverse population comprising various ethnic groups, predominantly the Yoruba people. This rich ethnic diversity contributes to the state’s vibrant traditions, festivals, and art forms, making it a cultural melting pot in southwestern Nigeria.
Culture
Ogun State boasts a rich cultural heritage predominantly influenced by the Yoruba ethnic group, with sub-groups such as the Egba, Ijebu, Remo, Egbado, Awori, Egun, Ikale, Ketu, Ohori, and Anago. The Ijebus, known as the first Yoruba-speaking people to have contact with Europeans in the early 14th century, hold a significant place in the state’s history. They are credited with inventing “Owo Eyo,” money made from cowry shells, which was widely accepted throughout Yorubaland before the advent of European coins. Ogun State is also renowned for its linguistic diversity, with English as the official language and native languages such as Yoruba, Egun, and various dialects spoken by different sub-groups. Traditional festivals like the Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode and the Lisabi festival in Abeokuta celebrate the cultural heritage and identity of the people, attracting tourists and visitors from far and wide.
Economy
Ogun State’s economy is diverse and dynamic, with significant contributions to various sectors, including education, agriculture, and industry. The state is home to the highest number of registered private universities and higher institutions in Nigeria, with two state-owned universities and the first University of Education in the country. This robust educational infrastructure positions Ogun State as a hub for academic excellence and innovation. Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, with Ogun State contributing significantly to the production of poultry products and being the primary cultivation ground for Ofada rice, a popular local delicacy. The state’s proximity to Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve center, enhances its economic prospects, fostering trade, investment, and industrial development.
Ogun State is renowned for its fertile land, which support the cultivation of a wide range of crops. The state is particularly known for its production of cash crops such as cocoa, oil palm, and rubber, as well as staple crops like maize, cassava, and vegetables. The state hosts numerous industrial estates and clusters, housing a diverse range of industries including food processing, textiles, cement production, automotive assembly, and pharmaceuticals. The state government has implemented various policies and initiatives to attract investment and promote industrial growth, including the establishment of industrial zones and the provision of infrastructure and incentives for investors.
Politics
Ogun State has played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape, producing prominent leaders who have made indelible marks on the nation’s history and governance. Notable figures like Chief Obafemi Awolowo and former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ernest Shonekan hail from Ogun State, underscoring its political importance in the South-West region and Nigeria as a whole.
Ogun State has been governed by various individuals who have made significant contributions to its development. Some of the past governors include Chief Bisi Onabanjo of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), who served from 1979 to 1983, followed by Group Captain Olabisi Onabanjo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from 1983 to 1985. Other notable governors include Chief Olusegun Osoba of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from 1992 to 1993 and the All-People’s Party (APP) from 1999 to 2003, Otunba Gbenga Daniel of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from 2003 to 2011, and Senator Ibikunle Amosun of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from 2011 to 2019. These governors, representing various political parties, have played key roles in shaping the political landscape and governance of Ogun State. Adedapo Oluseun Abiodun assumed office as the Governor of Ogun State in 2019. He emerged victorious in the 2019 general elections, under the (APC).
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 Ogun State: Positive
The outlook for Ogun 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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