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

The ranking released on Wednesday placed Abia with a positive momentum score of +0.67, behind only Enugu State with +1.15 and Jigawa State with +0.77.

Abia ranked ahead of Osun, Kano, Gombe, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, Lagos, Imo, Anambra and several other states assessed in the review period covering 33 states.

The Momentum Index measures how far each state has advanced relative to the national average. Positive scores indicate faster-than-average progress while negative scores reflect slower rates of improvement.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, on Thursday, the state government said the ranking underscored the remarkable transformation taking place in Abia under the administration of Governor Alex  Otti.

“Abia’s impressive performance demonstrates that the state’s ongoing reforms and development initiatives are yielding measurable and nationally recognised results,” the statement read.

According to him, the progress is driven by strategic investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, digital innovation, security, public sector reforms, agriculture and economic development.

The statement cited the reconstruction of major road networks, establishment of Smart Schools across the state, reforms in governance and revenue administration, industrial revival, youth empowerment and investment promotion as key drivers of the transformation.

“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 state government remains committed to consolidating the gains and accelerating development initiatives that improve the quality of life of every Abian.

“The recognition by Philips Consulting serves as an independent validation of Abia’s reform journey and further strengthens the state’s position as one of Nigeria’s emerging models of transformational governance and inclusive development,” the statement added.