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    Abia

    People

    Abia State, located in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, is primarily inhabited by the Igbo people, who constitute about 95% of the population. The Igbo, one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and industriousness. Additionally, there are smaller minority ethnic groups such as the Ibibio in Arochukwu. English is the official language of governance and business, while Igbo is widely spoken as the traditional language. Christianity is the predominant religion in Abia State. The state has a vibrant community with a population of about 4,112,230 approximately, with a significant portion of its residents engaged in agriculture.

    Culture

    Abia State boasts a diverse cultural landscape shaped by its indigenous peoples, historical events, and traditions. The state’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in Igbo customs, rituals, music, dance, art, and festivals. Traditional ceremonies and rites of passage play significant roles in Igbo culture, reflecting the community’s values and beliefs. Festivals such as the New Yam Festival (Iri Ji) are celebrated with great pomp and pageantry, showcasing the richness of Igbo heritage. Artistic expressions like masquerades, folklore, and storytelling are cherished forms of cultural preservation. Moreover, Abia’s cultural heritage is manifested in its cuisine, traditional attire, and architectural designs, which blend modernity with traditional aesthetics.
    Aba, one of the major cities in the state, is renowned for its vibrant market culture, where artisans and traders showcase their craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit. Handicrafts, textiles, and other locally made products are important to Abia’s cultural identity, reflecting the creativity of its people.

    Economy

    Abia State’s economy is multifaceted, with key sectors including oil and gas, agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce. The state is rich in natural resources, particularly crude oil and natural gas, which contribute significantly to its GDP. The GDP of the state is approximately 3.88 trillion Naira. Agriculture is a major source of livelihood for most of the population, with crops such as yams, maize, cassava, and palm oil being cultivated. Aba, the state’s commercial hub, is known for its thriving manufacturing industry, producing textiles, footwear, plastics, and cosmetics. The entrepreneurial spirit of Abians fuels a vibrant informal sector, with trade and commerce flourishing in markets and trade fairs across the state. The city’s industrial estate, powered by natural gas from the Imo River field, drives economic growth and development in the region.

    Politics

    Abia State’s political landscape has evolved since its creation in 1991, transitioning from military to democratic governance. The State Government comprises a democratically elected Governor and a House of Assembly. Over the years, political power has shifted between different parties, with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) historically dominating the state’s politics. However, there have been instances of party defections and competitive elections, reflecting the dynamic nature of Abia’s political environment.

    The electoral system follows a modified two-round system, ensuring democratic representation across the state’s local government areas. Abia State, Nigeria, has been governed by a series of administrators and governors who have left significant imprints on the state’s development and governance since its creation on August 27, 1991, when it was carved out from Imo State. Frank Ajobena served as the first military administrator from August 28, 1991, to January 1992. He was followed by Ogbonnaya Onu, who assumed office as the executive governor from January 1992 to November 1993 under the platform of the National Republican Convention (NRC). Chinyere Ike Nwosu took over as military administrator from December 1993 to September 1994, followed by Temi Ejoor from September 1994 to August 1996, and then Moses Fasanya from August 1996 to August 1998. Anthony Obi served as military administrator from August 1998 until May 29, 1999, when civilian rule was restored. Orji Uzor Kalu became the executive governor from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007, initially elected under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and later switching to the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA). Theodore A. Orji succeeded Kalu and served as executive governor from May 29, 2007, to May 29, 2015, under the PPA. Okezie Ikpeazu took office as executive governor on May 29, 2015, under the platform of the PDP, and served until May 29, 2023. Alex Chioma Otti is the incumbent executive governor, assuming office on May 29, 2023, under the platform of the Labour Party (LP). Each of these leaders has contributed to Abia State’s political, social, and economic landscape, s haping its trajectory over the years.

    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.

    pSPI Ranking

    -0.32

    -0.32%

    pSPI Ranking

    36/37

    20%

    pSPI Rating

    BB
    (Under Performance)
    25%

    Economic Potentials

    Economic Potentials Score

    0.43

    Economic Potentials Rank

    13/37

    Socioeconomic Performance​

    Socioeconomic Performance Score

    0.31

    Socioeconomic Performance Rank

    19/37

    Survey-based Performance

    Respondents View of Performance Score

    0.50

    Economic Potentials Rank

    36/37

    Survey-based Risk Assessment

    Respondents View of Risk Score

    0.29

    Respondents View of Risk Rank

    35/37

    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 Abia 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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