Bauchi
People
Bauchi State, nestled in the North-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, boasts a rich tapestry of diverse ethnic groups, each contributing to the state’s cultural mosaic. Bauchi State boasts a diverse population composed of 55 distinct ethnic groups, including the Hausa, Fulani,Kanuri, Karai-Karai, Butawa, Warji Gerawa, Tangale, Sayawa, Jarawa, and others. With each ethnic group bringing its own customs, festivals, historical backgrounds, and beliefs. Despite this diversity, there are cultural similarities among the people, particularly in language, occupational practices, festivals, and attire. Ethnic interaction is prevalent, especially in marriage and economic activities, fostering a sense of unity amidst diversity.
Religiously, Bauchi State predominantly follows Islam, with a predominant number of the population adhering to the faith. However, there are also Christian and traditionalist minorities, constituting a smaller number of the population. This religious diversity underscores the state’s commitment to tolerance and coexistence.
Culture
The cultural landscape of Bauchi State is characterized by a variety of customs, festivals, and traditions unique to each ethnic group. Festivals play a significant role in the cultural life of the state, serving as occasions for communal celebration and the preservation of heritage. Traditional ceremonies, such as the Durbar festival among the Fulani, showcase elaborate displays of horsemanship and cultural pageantry. Additionally, the state’s six emirates, including Bauchi, Katagum, and Ningi, serve as bastions of cultural preservation and governance, upholding age-old traditions and customs.
Artisanal crafts, including pottery, weaving, and beadwork, are part Bauchi’s cultural identity. These crafts not only serve as expressions of creativity but also preserve age-old traditions passed down through generations. Music and dance form an integral part of social gatherings, with rhythms and melodies reflecting the region’s cultural tapestry.
Economy
Bauchi State’s economy is largely agriculture, serving as the primary source of livelihood for a significant portion of the population. The state’s fertile lands, watered by rivers like the Gongola and Jama’are, support a variety of agricultural activities, including crop cultivation and livestock rearing. The presence of dams like Gubi and Tilden Fulani enhances agricultural productivity, providing essential irrigation for crops. Additionally, the state’s natural resources, including mineral deposits like Gold, Cassiterite (tine ore), Columbite, Gypsium, Wolfram, Coal, Limestone, Lignite, Iron-ore & Clay, and also the presence of lakes like the Maladumba Lake, offer opportunities for economic diversification and development.
Industries such as food processing, canning facilities, and mining of tin and columbite contribute to the state’s economic landscape. Tourism, particularly in Yankari National Park and its famed Wikki Warm Springs, presents opportunities for revenue generation and employment. The recent discovery of oil in the region has set a growth trajectory on its economy.
Politics
Bauchi State’s political landscape has evolved significantly since its creation in 1976. The state is divided into three senatorial zones, each represented by a senator in the National Assembly, reflecting its commitment to democratic governance and representation. With 20 local government areas and 31 members in the state House of Assembly, Bauchi State’s political structure is decentralized, allowing for grassroots participation and governance. Over the years, the state has witnessed political transformation, transitioning from colonial rule to independence and subsequently participating in Nigeria’s state creation exercises. Today, Bauchi State remains a vital component of Nigeria’s political landscape, contributing to the nation’s democratic process and governance.
The adoption of Sharia law in June 2001 reflects the state’s adherence to religious principles in governance. As a constituent entity of Nigeria, Bauchi State plays a crucial role in the nation’s political discourse, contributing voices and perspectives that shape policies and decisions.
Bauchi State, Nigeria, has been governed by a series of administrators and governors who have played pivotal roles in shaping the state’s development and governance since its creation on February 3, 1976, following the division of the North-Eastern State into Bauchi, Borno, and Gongola states. Mohammad Bello Khaliel served as the first governor from March 1976 to July 1978, followed by Garba Duba from July 1978 to October 1979. Abubakar Tatari Ali assumed office as governor from October 1979 to December 1983 under the platform of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). The military took over governance with Mohammed Sani Sami serving as governor from January 1984 to August 1985, succeeded by Chris AbutuGaruba from August 1985 to December 1987, and then Joshua Madaki from December 1987 to August 1990. Abu Ali took over governance from August 1990 to January 1992, followed by Dahiru Mohammed from January 1992 to November 1993 under the National Republican Convention (NRC). The civilian administration was briefly interrupted when James Kalau served as administrator from December 1993 to September 1994, followed by Rasheed Adisa Raji from September 1994 to August 1996, and Theophilus Bamigboye from August 1996 to August 1998. Abdul Mshelia assumed office as administrator from August 1998 to May 1999. With the return of civilian rule, Ahmad Adamu Mu’azu served as governor from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007, under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Isa Yuguda succeeded Mu’azu and governed from May 29, 2007, to May 29, 2015, initially under the All-Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) before officially decamping to the PDP on June 27, 2009. Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar served as governor from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2019, under the All-Progressives Congress (APC). Bala Mohammed is the incumbent governor, assuming office on May 29, 2019, under the platform of the PDP. Each of these leaders has left a mark on Bauchi State’s political landscape, contributing to its growth and development.
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 Bauchi 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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