Nigeria’s latest governance assessment has placed Lagos State, Ogun State, and Kaduna State among the top-performing states in the country, according to the 2025 State Performance Index (pSPI) released by Phillips Consulting.
The report evaluates the performance of Nigeria’s 36 states using a blended methodology that combines objective data and public perception. According to the index, 70 per cent of the scoring is derived from measurable indicators such as audited financial statements, infrastructure development, fiscal sustainability, and service delivery outcomes. The remaining 30 per cent is based on a nationwide citizen perception survey.
This year’s edition also introduced a new five-star rating system to better reflect overall state performance. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was excluded from the ranking due to its failure to publish audited financial reports, according to the report.
In the 2025 rankings, Lagos State emerged as the best-performing state in Nigeria, earning a five-star rating. The commercial hub was commended for its strong fiscal management, infrastructure expansion, and relatively consistent service delivery.
Ogun State followed closely in second place, securing a four-star rating. The state was recognised for its industrial growth, improved governance systems, and ongoing infrastructure development.
Kaduna State also achieved a four-star rating, placing third overall. The report highlighted its progress in governance reforms and service delivery improvements.
Adamawa State ranked fourth, also earning a four-star rating, reflecting its steady performance across key governance indicators.
The top ten list further includes Niger State, Nasarawa State, Gombe State, Jigawa State, Plateau State, and Abia State, which all featured prominently in the index.
Phillips Consulting noted that the pSPI is designed to encourage transparency, accountability, and healthy competition among state governments, while also providing citizens with a clearer picture of governance performance across the country.
The inclusion of citizen perception in the scoring model, the firm explained, ensures that the index reflects not only statistical performance but also how residents experience governance in their respective states.
The 2025 edition of the pSPI is expected to influence public debate on state-level governance, particularly as stakeholders continue to call for improved transparency and more efficient service delivery across Nigeria.
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