Good governance should not be a privilege. It should be the standard.
With 36 states in Nigeria, there is always a conversation to be had about leadership, accountability and development. While many Nigerians continue to demand more from their state governments, some governors have drawn attention to their efforts in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and urban development.
From rebuilding communities to improving roads and investing in public services, here are some Nigerian governors whose administrations deserve a closer look.
1. Babajide Sanwo-Olu – Lagos State
In office since: 2019 | Term: Second term
Notable Achievements: Sanwo-Olu’s administration has expanded public transportation through additional BRT and high-capacity buses, advanced the Lagos Blue Line and Red Line rail projects, and developed bus terminals to improve connectivity across Lagos. However, traffic congestion remains a major challenge.
2. Peter Mbah – Enugu State
In office since: 2023 | Term: First term
Notable Achievements: Mbah has introduced the Smart Green Schools initiative to modernise basic education, invested in road construction and modern transport terminals, and pursued improvements to primary healthcare centres and other public infrastructure.
3. Babagana Umara Zulum – Borno State
In office since: 2019 | Term: Second term
Notable Achievements: Zulum’s administration has invested in rebuilding communities affected by insurgency, developing schools, healthcare facilities and housing, and improving transportation infrastructure. These efforts are particularly significant in a state facing prolonged insecurity and displacement.
4. Seyi Makinde – Oyo State
In office since: 2019 | Term: Second term
Notable Achievements: Makinde’s administration has constructed and rehabilitated major roads, including the Moniya–Iseyin Road, invested in Omi Tuntun mass transit buses and modern bus terminals, and pursued improvements to healthcare facilities and airport infrastructure
5. Uba Sani – Kaduna State
In office since: 2023 | Term: First term
Notable Achievements: Uba Sani’s administration has completed the long-delayed 300-bed specialist hospital in Kaduna and pursued improvements to primary healthcare centres, general hospitals, roads and educational facilities. His government has also prioritised support for smallholder farmers.
6. Mohammed Umaru Bago – Niger State
In office since: 2023 | Term: First term
Notable Achievements: Bago has prioritised agricultural development, large-scale farming and road construction across the state. His administration is also promoting agro-industrial development to boost food production, create jobs and strengthen Niger State’s economy.
7. Sheriff Oborevwori – Delta State
In office since: 2023 | Term: First term
Notable Achievements: Oborevwori’s administration has prioritised road construction, urban development and other infrastructure projects under its MORE Agenda. The government has also pursued initiatives aimed at improving transportation, expanding economic opportunities and strengthening peace and security.
8. Dr Alex Chioma Otti – Abia State
In office since: 2023 | Term: First term
Notable Achievements: Otti’s administration has made road rehabilitation and urban renewal major priorities, including the commissioning of multiple road projects. His government has also pursued improvements to primary healthcare centres and public infrastructure in Aba and Umuahia, with the aim of improving transportation, commerce and residents’ quality of life.
Good Governance Is About Results!
These governors operate in different circumstances, and their projects should be judged by their quality, transparency and actual impact on residents.
Recognising achievements does not mean ignoring shortcomings. Nigerians deserve leaders who deliver results, account for public funds and improve the lives of the people they govern.
Over to you! Which of these governors do you think is making the biggest difference? And which other governor deserves to be on this list?
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