Oborevwori’s Delta Emerges Among Nigeria’s Top-Performing States

Delta Earns National Recognition for Governance Performance
DELTA State has been ranked the second-best governed state in Nigeria in the latest 2025 Governance Performance Index compiled by the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies.
The ranking placed Delta ahead of most states in the federation, reflecting strong performance in governance delivery, public administration and development initiatives under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
With a score of 70 per cent, Delta finished just behind Kaduna State, which secured first place with 73 per cent.
Delta Outpaces Major States
The report showed that Delta ranked ahead of several prominent states, including Lagos State, Akwa Ibom State, Oyo State, Enugu State and Borno State.
Other top-performing states included Anambra State, Niger State and Ekiti State.
The assessment examined governance outcomes across all 36 states, focusing on the effectiveness of public administration and the capacity of governments to deliver measurable results for citizens.
Development Projects Drive Positive Assessment
Analysts attribute Delta’s strong ranking to ongoing investments in infrastructure and social services across the state.
The administration has undertaken extensive road construction, bridge development, healthcare improvements, educational interventions and other public sector reforms aimed at improving living standards and stimulating economic activity.
The report suggests that these interventions have contributed significantly to the state’s positive governance rating.
Bottom and Middle-Tier Rankings
While Delta featured among the leading states, the report identified several states struggling with governance performance.
Taraba State ranked last with a score of 20 per cent, while Yobe State, Benue State, Rivers State, Plateau State and Kebbi State were also listed among the lower-performing states.
Meanwhile, states such as Kwara State, Osun State, Ogun State and Kano State occupied positions within the middle category.
Strengthening Accountability and Performance
According to CIAPS, the Governance Performance Index is designed to provide an objective framework for measuring governance effectiveness while encouraging accountability and improved service delivery.
The institute said the ranking remains an important tool for assessing progress, identifying strengths and promoting sustainable development across Nigeria’s sub-national governments.
