Taraba
People
With a population of over three million people, Taraba State is one of Nigeria’s most populous states. Taraba State, located in northeastern Nigeria, is a region known for its diverse and rich culture. With over three million residents, the state is home to various ethnic groups, including the Jukun, Fulani, Tiv, and Hausa, contributing to the culture of the state, and the country. The people of Taraba State celebrate their traditions through differentfestivals, dances, and folklore, showcasing their deep-rooted cultural identity. Despite facing challenges like poverty and inadequate infrastructure, the government has implemented initiatives to improve living conditions, education, and healthcare. Taraba’s community life is marked by strong communal ties, social gatherings, and mutual assistance, fostering a sense of belonging among its residents. The state’s cuisine, arts, and crafts also reflect its cultural diversity, with dishes like fufu and tuwo shinkafa and skilled artisans producing intricate pottery and weaving. In essence, the people of Taraba State embody resilience, unity, and cultural richness, making it a unique and vibrant part of Nigeria.
Culture
The major ethnic groups in Taraba State include the Jukun, Fulani, Tiv, and Hausa, among others, contributing to the region’s cultural diversity. One of the most significant aspects of Taraba’s culture is its traditional festivals. These festivals are colorful and lively celebrations that showcase the rich history and customs of the various ethnic groups. Tthe Jukun people celebrate the Nongo Festival, which marks the end of the farming season and involves traditional dances, music, and cultural displays. Similarly, the Fulani people celebrate the Durbar Festival, which features elaborate horse-riding displays, music, and cultural performances. Each ethnic group has its own unique dance styles, often accompanied by drumming and singing. These cultural displays are a form of entertainment and a means of preserving cultural identity. While Islam and Christianity are the predominant religions, traditional beliefs and practices also coexist harmoniously. Religious festivals and ceremonies are celebrated with great enthusiasm, further enriching the culture of the state.
Economy
The economy of Taraba State is primarily agrarian, with agriculture serving as the backbone of its economic activities. The state’s lands support the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, including yams, rice, maize, millet, sorghum, and cassava. Farmers across the state engage in both subsistence and commercial farming, contributing significantly to food production in Nigeria. Taraba’s agricultural sector provides employment to a large portion of the population and is crucial for the state’s food security and economic stability.
Livestock farming is another important aspect of Taraba’s economy, particularly among the Fulani ethnic group. Cattle rearing, sheep farming, and poultry keeping are common practices, with the sale of livestock and animal products contributing to household income. Additionally, the state’s vast grazing reserves provide ample pasture for livestock, making animal husbandry a viable economic activity.
Apart from agriculture, trade and commerce play significant roles in Taraba’s economy. The state’s strategic location along major transportation routes facilitate trade with neighbouringstates and countries. Markets such as the Jalingo Main Market, Wukari Market, and Bali Market are hubs for economic activities, where goods ranging from agricultural produce to textiles, household items, and livestock are bought and sold.
Taraba State is endowed with natural resources that contribute to its economic development. These resources include minerals such as marble, limestone, and gypsum, as well as forests with timber and non-timber forest products. While the exploitation of these resources is not as extensive as agriculture.
Politics
Taraba State, like many Nigerian states, has a dynamic political landscape shaped by its history, ethnic diversity, and socio-economic factors. Since its creation on August 27, 1991, Taraba has witnessed various political developments, transitions, and challenges.
Several governors have led Taraba State since its inception. One of the notable figures is Rev. Jolly Nyame, who served as the first civilian governor from 1992 to 1993 under the platform of the National Republican Convention (NRC) and later from 1999 to 2007 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Danbaba Suntai succeeded Nyame and governed from 2007 to 2012, initially under the PDP and later under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). After Suntai, Garba Umar served as acting governor from 2012 to 2015, following Suntai’s incapacitation due to a plane crash. He also belonged to the PDP. Darius Ishaku took office in 2015 and his tenure ended in 2023, under the party of PDP. Governor Abdu kefas is the current governor of the state since May 2023, he won under the party of PDP.
A prominent politician from Taraba State, David Mark served as a Senator for Benue South Senatorial District for several terms. He held various leadership positions in the National Assembly, including President of the Senate from 2007 to 2015. Mark’s political career spans decades, and he remains influential in Nigerian politics. Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan, popularly known as Mama Taraba, was a Nigerian lawyer and politician. She served as the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Mama Taraba also contested for the governorship of Taraba State in 2015 under the platform of the APC, becoming the first female gubernatorial candidate in the state’s history. Her political career inspired many women and youth in Taraba and beyond.
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 Taraba 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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