Gombe
People
Gombe State, often known as the “Jewel in the Savannah,” is a significant entity within Nigeria’s northeastern geographical region. Officially created on October 1, 1996, by fragmenting part of the old Bauchi State, it embodies a fascinating blend of cultural richness, history, and agriculture, all sheltered within.
The population is predominantly Muslim, accounting for about 85-90%, with Christians making up the remaining 10-15%. This religious composition influences the social fabric and cultural festivities in the state, from the popular Eid celebrations to Christmas and New Year festivities.
The state has a diverse population of approximately 3,472,222, comprising various ethnic groups. The demographic composition showcases a vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and religious beliefs, with a significant youth population.
Culture
Gombe’s culture reflects its historical, ethnic, and religious diversity. Gombe has a rich cultural landscape, evident by its 14 emirates, each contributing to the region’s history and culture. These emirates encompass a diverse of communities, including the Gombe Emirate,Akko, Funakaye, Dukku, Billiri, Kaltungo, Nafada, Tula, Gona, Balanga, Yamaltu, Deba, and Pindiga Emirates, each adding its unique flavour to Gombe’s cultural identity.
Gombe State is strategically positioned in the northeastern part of Nigeria, surrounded by states that each add to its cultural and economic vibrancy: Borno, Yobe, Taraba, Adamawa, and Bauchi. Its capital, which also bears the name Gombe, serves as the administrative andcommercial hub of the state. The state’s geography features mainly tropical West Sudaniansavanna, contributing to its diversified vegetation. The climate is predominantly Sudanian, with a pronounced dry season from November to March and a rainy season extending from April to October, receiving an average rainfall of around 850mm annually.
The Fulani people constitute a considerable portion of its population, peppered across seven out of the state’s eleven Local Government Areas (LGAs). Other significant ethnic groups include the Tangale, Hausa, Tula, Tera, Kanuri, Waja, and Bolewa, each contributing to the state’s rich cultural mosaic with their unique customs, languages, and traditions.
Economy
Economically, the state has strengths in sectors such as Agriculture, contributing significantly to its GDP. Despite facing challenges such as Insecurities around the northeast region, there are opportunities for growth in areas like tech innovation and agriculture, driven by the state’s government achievements in the recent years.
Agriculture is the backbone of Gombe State’s economy, with many of its inhabitants engaged in farming and animal husbandry. The state’s rich agricultural produce includes groundnut, cassava, guinea corn, and cotton, amongst others. In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to diversify the economy, with investments in sectors such as real estate, retail, and services.
Education is a pivotal aspect of Gombe State’s development agenda. The state boasts several educational institutions, ranging from basic education to tertiary levels, aimed at fostering literacy and learning among its population.
Gombe stands out as a premier destination for conducting business, characterized by its top-notch contemporary infrastructure, a tranquil and secure atmosphere, transparent access to information, conducive regulatory framework, skilled labour force, and abundant economic prospects. These attributes have merited the city the prestigious annual recognition from the World Bank. Alongside securing the first position in the recent pcl. state performance index.
Politics
Gombe State operates a democratic system of governance with a state government helmed by an elected governor. The state legislature, known as the Gombe State House of Assembly, consists of elected members who legislate on state matters. The state’s political architecture mirrors Nigeria’s federal structure, focusing on governance that addresses the needs of its diverse population while fostering development and progress.
In the annals of Gombe State’s political history, a series of administrators and governors have steered the course of governance, each leaving a unique mark on the region’s trajectory.
The first name in this chronicle is Group Captain Joseph Orji, who assumed the role of Administrator on October 7, 1996, during a period marked by military rule. Orji’s tenure, characterized by the firm grip of martial law, lasted until August 1998, a time of transition for the state.
With the dawn of democracy, Abubakar Habu Hashidu took the helm as Governor on May 29, 1999. Leading under the banner of the All-People’s Party (APP), Hashidu’sadministration ushered in a new era of civilian governance, navigating the complexities of democratic governance in Gombe. Following Hashidu’s term, Mohammed Danjuma Gojeassumed the mantle of leadership, beginning his gubernatorial journey on May 29, 2003. Representing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Goje’s tenure was marked by initiatives aimed at fostering development and progress across the state. Continuing the legacy of PDP governance, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo succeeded Goje, assuming office in May 2011. Dankwambo’s tenure was characterized by a commitment to social welfare programs and infrastructural development, bolstering the state’s standing on the national stage.
In the latest chapter of Gombe’s political saga, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya took up the mantle of leadership in May 2019, representing the All-Progressives Congress (APC). With a vision for progress and prosperity, Yahaya’s administration continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing Gombe State in the 21st century.
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 Gombe 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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