Enugu State Emerges as Nigeria’s Top Performer in Governance Rankings
Enugu State has been recognized as the fastest improving state in Nigeria according to the 2026 Phillips Consulting State Performance Momentum Index. The state, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mba, achieved a momentum score of +1.15, outpacing 32 other states in the nation’s recent governance and development assessment.
The report ranked Enugu as the highest among the 33 states evaluated, with Jigawa State following at +0.77 and Abia State at +0.67. Phillips Consulting’s Momentum Index evaluates each state’s improvement rate relative to the national average during the study period, with a positive score indicating above-average progress.
Significantly, Enugu’s advancement reflects the state’s dedicated governance practices, stringent fiscal discipline, and the sustained execution of reforms. The Southeast region outperformed all other geopolitical zones in Nigeria, demonstrating overall strong performance.
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani, representing the Enugu State caucus in the National Assembly, congratulated Governor Mba on this notable achievement. He expressed that Enugu has experienced unprecedented transformation under Mba’s leadership, positioning him as a model for effective governance throughout Nigeria.
The Momentum Index is a crucial addition to the 2026 Philips Consulting State Performance Index (pSPI), which employs a data-driven approach to evaluate governance and development outcomes across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. In contrast to traditional rankings focused solely on current performance, the Momentum Index captures the pace of change over time, blending objective indicators and public perceptions.
While notable improvements were observed in states such as Osun (+0.65) and Kano (+0.46), several states performed below average, including Edo, which recorded the lowest momentum score at -0.79. The report highlighted that the best performers shared characteristics such as improved fiscal management, heightened domestic revenues, and enhanced service delivery.
Governor Mba emphasized his administration’s commitment since taking office, focusing on infrastructural development, education, healthcare, security, and economic growth. Initiatives have included significant investments in roads and bridges, a major urban renewal program, and the introduction of green schools, all aimed at elevating Enugu into a preferred investment destination.
The findings underscore that favorable economic conditions alone cannot drive progress. States that augmented fiscal resources with effective governance and sensible public service delivery reported more substantial improvements. Enugu’s achievements, marked by increased internal revenue and robust public infrastructure investments, showcase how decisive leadership and disciplined implementation of policies yield measurable results.
Phillips Consulting’s analysis offers independent validation of Enugu’s reform initiatives and underscores its potential as a model for sustainable development and governance within Nigeria. Chairman Forusho Phillips described the report as an essential resource that enhances governance and propels sustainable growth across the nation. He noted that the 2026 pSPI aims to provide a reliable framework for measuring progress and identifying opportunities, inviting states to utilize this report as a tool for improving governance and creating better outcomes for their citizens.
The detailed methodology of the 2026 index is grounded in a combination of objective data, citizen feedback, and a thorough analysis of various pillars. As Nigeria continues its quest for sustainable growth, the insights derived from this report can guide policy formulation, investment decisions, and strategic planning essential for long-term national advancement.
