Ekiti
People
With a total land area of 5,887.890 square kilometers, the state is home to 16 Local Government Councils. According to the 2006 census, the population of Ekiti State stood at 2,384,212 people. A significant aspect of the state’s identity is its large number of hills, which often serve as sites for towns and settlements, reflecting the local term for hill, from which the name “Ekiti” is derived.
Ekiti State, located in the southwestern region of Nigeria, the people of Ekiti state are largely Yoruba ethnic group. A standout trait among the people of Ekiti State is their strong focus on education and the quest for knowledge. Known for an impressive literacy rate, the culture in Ekiti places a high premium on education, encouraging a relentless pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.
Culture
The culture of Ekiti State is rich and filled with different activities, example; agriculture, which serves as a source of income and food for most of its people. Agriculture sustains a large percentage of the population. The state’s agricultural produce is diverse, including cash crops such as cocoa, oil palm, kola nut, and citrus, alongside arable and food crops like rice, yam, cassava, and maize.
Ekiti State’s culture is shaped by centuries of history and tradition. The state’s culture ischaracterized by its festivals, and ceremonies. Festivals such as the Ogun festival, New Yam festival, and Egungun festival are celebrated with great display, showcasing the community’s deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and respect for nature.
Economy
With farming, serving as one of the main livelihoods across the state. Cash crops such as cocoa, oil palm, and rubber contribute significantly to the economy, alongside arable crops like rice, yam, and cassava. The state’s natural mineral resources, including cassiterite, columbite, and tantalite, remain largely untapped, presenting opportunities for future economic growth and development. Industries related to agriculture, mining, and processing form the backbone of Ekiti’s economy, providing employment and income opportunities for its populace.
Ekiti boasts minor industries such as tourism, capitalizing on its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The state’s strategic location, placed between Kwara, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun states, positions it as a player in regional trade and commerce. Despite its relatively small size, Ekiti punches above its weight economically, boasting the thirteenth highest Human Development Index in Nigeria.
Politics
Ekiti State is led by a democratically elected governor and supported by a state house of assembly, the government works to address the needs and aspirations of its people. Ado-Ekiti serves as the capital city, hosting government institutions, administrative offices. With a rich history of pre-colonial kingdoms, colonial rule, and post-independence governance, Ekiti’s political journey reflects the determination of its people to chart their own course and shape their future.
When Ekiti State was established from Ondo State in 1996, Colonel Mohammed Bawa became its inaugural governor. Over the years, the state has seen series of governors, including two military governors and five civilian governors. Niyi Adebayo of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) served as the first civilian governor from 1999 to 2003, followed by Ayo Fayose of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from 2003 to 2006. Segun Oni, also of the PDP, held office from 2007 to 2010. Kayode Fayemi, initially representing the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and later the All-Progressives Congress (APC), served as governor from 2010 to 2014, and returned for a second term in 2018 to 2022. Ayo Fayose, also from the PDP, was re-elected for a second term from 2014 to 2018. As of October 16, 2022 up until date, Biodun Oyebanji is the incumbent governor of Ekiti State.
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 Ekiti 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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