Edo
People
Edo State, often acclaimed as the “Heartbeat of the Nation,” holds a prominent position within Nigeria’s southern region. Formally established on August 27, 1991, through the division of Bendel State. The people of Edo State, also known as the Bendel people, primarily consist of the Edo-speaking ethnic group. Among them, those referred to as ‘Benin’ reside in seven southern local government areas of Edo State, Nigeria. Direct descendants of the founders of the Benin Kingdom, known as Ogiso Igodo, they share cultural affinities with neighboring tribes such as the Esan, Etsakọ, Isoko, and Urhobo.
Numbering approximately 4,470,607, they occupy a territory west of the River Niger, spanning from hilly regions in the north to the swamps of the Niger Delta. Benin City, the heart of the Benin kingdom, is also referred to as “Edo,” flourishing from the 14th to the 17th century.
Culture
Edo people have a vibrant culture, evident in their language, arts, and customs. Traditional festivals like the Igue festival, celebrated in honor of the Oba of Benin, showcase the richness of Edo cultural expressions. Art forms such as bronze casting and ivory carving are renowned globally, reflecting the artistic prowess of the Edo people.
Edo society revolves around compact village settlements, varying in size from small hamlets to populous towns. Their subsistence relies primarily on yams, supplemented by crops like corn (maize), plantains, cassava, and other vegetables. Livestock such as goats, sheep, dogs, and poultry play a role mainly in sacrificial rituals. Traditional crafts include brass casting, wood carving, leatherworking, and weaving ceremonial cloth.
In Edo State, a diverse set of ethnic groups enriches the cultural landscape. Among them are the Edos, Afemais, Esans, Owans, and Akoko Edos, each tracing their roots back to Benin City. Language varies among these groups, influenced by their proximity to the city. The Bini-speaking population, predominant in seven of the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, comprises a larger percentage of the population. Meanwhile, the Esans, Afemai, Etsako, Owan, and Akoko Edo all constitute significant portions.
Economy
Agriculture largely contributes to the economy of Edo state, with a large percentage of the population involving in farming crops like yams, cassava, maize, and plantains, alongside cash crops such as rubber and palm oil, which contribute to both local consumption and export earnings.
Edo State is also an oil producing state, producing both crude oil and natural gas. Several oil fields are located within the state’s borders, with production operations managed by both local and international oil companies. While the scale of production may not rival that of larger oil-producing states, the revenue generated from these activities forms a crucial part of Edo State’s resources.
The service industry also contributes a good percentage of the economy, activities like transportation, banking, education, and trade, with Benin city serving as the city’s commercial hub, housing various markets that supports different services within and outside the state. ICT is also gaining traction, this is due to huge effort from the government in prioritizing ICT activities, leveraging its effectiveness and trends.
Politics
Borno State, has a dynamic political landscape shaped by various factors, including ethnic diversity, security challenges, and historical legacies. The state has been a stronghold for several political parties and movements over the years, reflecting the complexity of its socio-political dynamics. With its capital city, Maiduguri, serving as a political epicenter, Borno State plays a significant role in shaping regional and national politics.
The state has been governed by a diverse array of leaders from different political parties, each facing unique challenges during their tenure. Notable past governors include Mohammed Goni (1983-1985, National Party of Nigeria), Ali Modu Sheriff (2003-2011, All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and later the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)), and Kashim Shettima(2011-2019, All Progressives Congress (APC)) who is now the vice president of the federation under the same party. The recent governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum assumed office 2019 and was reelected 2023 for the second term under the party of 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 Edo 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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