Rivers state’s dilemma: More bridges, more poverty
Nyesom Wike, the governor of Rivers state, dressed in chef attire standing over a newly constructed bridge

Solid infrastructure is probably the first thing you notice when you get to most countries outside Nigeria. Several days ago, Bo, one of our co-founders, was still raving on and on about the quality of roads in Rwanda after a week-long visit.

That kind of ringing endorsement is the norm because infrastructure investment on this side of the world is low and slows economic growth.
 

Key takeaways:

  1. Rivers state has constantly recorded one of the largest revenue among Nigeria’s 36 states. 

  2. This revenue growth has fuelled capital expenses that took up over 77% of total expenses last year. 

  3. But Rivers state’s revenue is yet to rub off positively on residents who are poorer and less employed than other oil-producing states.

 

But, if you have spent any time following Nigerian politics, you’ve probably heard of Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’s singing governor. You may have also heard of his love for bridges, 10

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Adesola Afolabi

Adesola Afolabi

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