UK Report Worst Govern State in Nigeria

By DocuNews Central Staff | October 2, 2025

Breaking: A UK-based governance report has ranked Zamfara, Kwara, and Benue as Nigeria’s worst-governed states. The report highlights insecurity, poor infrastructure, failing schools, and weak accountability. Governors of the affected states have reacted, with some rejecting the findings.

UK Governance Report Sparks Outrage Across Nigeria

The Good Governance Rating Index (GGRI), based in London, released its midterm report on Nigeria. It rated states on health, education, infrastructure, security, economy, and transparency. Zamfara topped the chart as worst-governed, followed by Kwara and Benue (Guardian Nigeria).

Zamfara State Tops the List of Poor Governance

The report says Zamfara has no clear developmental roadmap. Banditry and kidnappings continue, schools are abandoned, and hospitals lack staff and funding. Billions from federal allocation show little impact (Pulse).

Governor Dauda Lawal’s reaction: “We inherited a broken system. Our administration is gradually restoring order, investing in education and healthcare, and improving security. While we acknowledge challenges, dismissing all progress is unfair.”

Kwara State Faces Criticism Over Unfulfilled Promises

Kwara scored poorly for weak delivery on social services. Ilorin suffers from bad roads, unreliable water, and waste issues. Rural education and healthcare are also struggling (GWG).

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s response: “The report ignores our progress. In the past two years, Kwara has renovated schools, expanded healthcare, and invested in road projects. The work is ongoing, and results will soon be visible.”

Benue State Struggles With Insecurity and Abandonment

Benue was flagged for collapsing rural infrastructure and insecurity. Many farming communities remain displaced. Agriculture, once the backbone of the state, has suffered. Corruption allegations were also noted (Pulse).

Governor Hyacinth Alia’s reply: “Benue faces unique security challenges. Despite these, we are investing in rural development and rebuilding schools and hospitals. This report downplays our recovery efforts.”

Citizen Voices Add Weight

Residents in the affected states confirmed the report mirrors reality. A farmer in Benue said: “We cannot farm anymore. Attacks keep us away.” A teacher in Zamfara said: “Children sit on bare floors with no roof above them.” A Kwara resident noted: “We hear announcements of projects, but hospitals still lack medicine.”

Recommendations From the UK Researchers

• Improve budget transparency and publish spending records.
• Strengthen federal-state security collaboration.
• Prioritise rural healthcare and schools.
• Support civil society and media oversight.
• Invest in roads, water, and job creation to boost local economies.

National Implications

The report warns of rising poverty, weakened democracy, and growing insecurity if these issues remain unaddressed. Civil society groups are urging urgent reforms, while opposition parties are calling for more accountability.

Final Thoughts

The UK report shines a spotlight on Nigeria’s governance crisis. Zamfara, Kwara, and Benue are under pressure to deliver real improvements. Whether leaders accept the verdict or not, the daily reality for citizens demands urgent solutions.

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