Abia ranked third fastest-improving state

Report

Abia State has been ranked the third fastest-improving state in Nigeria, according to the 2026 Philips Consulting State Performance Momentum Index.

The report, released on Wednesday, placed Abia with a momentum score of +0.67, behind Enugu (+1.15) and Jigawa (+0.77). Abia ranked ahead of Osun, Kano, Gombe, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, Lagos, Imo, Anambra and several other states assessed across 33 states.

The Momentum Index measures progress relative to the national average, with positive scores indicating faster-than-average improvement.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the ranking reflected the transformation under Governor Alex Otti’s administration. “Abia’s impressive performance demonstrates that the state’s ongoing reforms and development initiatives are yielding measurable and nationally recognised results,” he said.

The government cited strategic investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, digital innovation, security, agriculture and economic development as drivers of progress. Key initiatives include the reconstruction of major road networks, establishment of Smart Schools, reforms in governance and revenue administration, industrial revival, youth empowerment and investment promotion.

“The ranking also reflects increasing confidence in Abia’s governance model, which places transparency, accountability, prudent resource management and people-centred policies at the heart of public service delivery,” the statement added.

The government pledged to consolidate these gains and accelerate development initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. It described the recognition by Philips Consulting as an independent validation of Abia’s reform journey and a boost to its reputation as a model of transformational governance.