Rivers
People
Rivers State, situated in the South-South region of Nigeria, emerged as an independent entity on May 27, 1967, following its separation from the former Eastern Region. Serving as its capital city, Port Harcourt holds the distinction of being the nucleus of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the South, and sharing boundaries with Imo, Abia, and Anambra States to the North, Akwa Ibom State to the East, and Bayelsa and Delta States to the West, Rivers State occupies a strategic position in the Nigerian landscape. Historically, the state, formerly part of the Oil Rivers Protectorate, was established to foster development and provide recognition to the Riverine people as a distinct cultural group.
Culturally rich, Rivers State is home to over 28 indigenous languages, reflecting its ethnic diversity. The state’s natural beauty is showcased through attractions like the Bonny River, and Calabar River, while historical landmarks such as the Port Harcourt Museum and Afam Power Station add to its allure.
Culture
Rivers State is renowned for its rich history and heritage, with landmarks such as the Port Harcourt Museum and the statue of King Jaja of Opobo serving as reminders of its past. The state’s natural beauty, including the lush Ogoniland rainforest, picturesque rivers, and stunning beaches, provides the backdrop for cultural celebrations and traditions.
Festivals are an integral part of Rivers State’s cultural fabric, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to experience the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Events like the Carniriv festival, the Bole Festival, and the Port Harcourt Jazz Festival showcase the state’s music, art, cuisine, and traditional dances, attracting participants from across Nigeria and beyond.
Christianity and Islam are the dominant faiths in Rivers State, contributing to its spiritual landscape. Festivals play a crucial role in Rivers State’s cultural calendar, with events like the Carniriv festival, the Bole Festival, and the Port Harcourt Jazz Festival attracting participants and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond. United by their shared identity as residents of the “Treasure Base of the Nation.” Their rich diversity and collective spirit contribute to the Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
Economy
Prior to the oil boom, agriculture formed the backbone of Rivers State’s economy, with crops like cassava, rubber, oil palm, coconut, and rice being primary agricultural products. The state have a vast expanse of arable land, approximately 39 percent of its total land area, suitable for cultivation. Additionally, Rivers State hosts a thriving fishing industry, contributing to its economic diversity. With 23 Local Government Areas, the state is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, including the Igbo, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Ogba, Ekpeye, and Ijaw, making it the sixth most populous state in Nigeria, with a population exceeding 5 million people.
Port Harcourt stands as a bustling commercial hub, particularly within Nigeria’s oil industry. Mineral resources including crude oil, silica, glass sand, and clay contribute significantly to the state’s economic landscape. Rivers State’s hydrocarbon sector, responsible for nearly half of Nigeria’s onshore crude oil production, forms the cornerstone of its economy, driving foreign Direct investments. However, the oil industry’s prominence has also led to environmental challenges, with pollution and degradation posing significant concerns for the state’s sustainability.
Politics
Politics in Rivers State is characterized by its dynamic and often contentious nature, reflective of the state’s diverse population and strategic importance in Nigerian politics. With its status as an oil-rich region and significant economic hub, Rivers State has long been a battleground for political power and influence. The state has witnessed intense political rivalries and power struggles between various political parties and factions, resulting in frequent political upheavals and electoral disputes. The dominance of major political parties such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All-Progressives Congress (APC) has led to fierce competition for control of government institutions and resources. The political atmosphere in Rivers State is marked by high levels of activism, with civil society organizations, interest groups, and grassroots movements actively engaging in political discourse and advocacy.
Since its creation, the state has seen governors from various political parties, each with their own visions and legacies. Some notable past governors of Rivers State include Chief Melford Okilo, who served as the first civilian governor of the state from 1979 to 1983 under the partyof the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). Another prominent figure in Rivers State’s political history is Dr. Peter Odili, who governed the state from 1999 to 2007 on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). In recent years, the state has been led by governors such as Chibuike Amaechi, who served from 2007 to 2015, initially as a member of the PDP before defecting to the All-Progressives Congress (APC). Following Amaechi’s tenure, NyesomWike assumed office as governor in 2015, representing the PDP. The past governors of Rivers State have had significant roles in shaping the state’s political and developmental trajectory, leaving behind legacies that continue to influence its governance and future direction.Siminalayi Fubara is the current Governor of the state under the PDP who was sworn in May 2023.
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 Rivers 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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