The movement for state creation in Nigeria is gaining traction as the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has received 32 proposals for new states across the country’s six geopolitical zones.
According to a letter read by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu at plenary, the proposals include seven states from the North Central, four from the North East, five from the North West, five from the South East, four from the South South, and seven from the South West.
Among the states being considered are Okun, Okura, and Confluence (Kogi); Benue Ala, Apa-Agba, and Apa (Benue); FCT State; Amana (Adamawa); Katagum (Bauchi); Savannah (Borno); Muri (Taraba); New Kaduna and Gurara (Kaduna); Tiga and Ghari (Kano); Kainji (Kebbi); Etiti (South East states); Orashi (Imo/Rivers); Adada (Enugu); Orlu (Imo/Abia); Aba (Abia); Ogoja (Cross River); Warri (Delta); Bori and Obolo (Rivers); Toru-Ebe (Edo/Delta/Ondo); Ibadan (Oyo); Lagoon (Lagos/Ogun); Ijebu (Ogun); and Oke Ogun/Ijesha (Oyo/Ogun/Osun).
The Constitution stipulates that state creation requires a two-thirds majority approval from the National Assembly, state Houses of Assembly, and local governments in the affected areas. The House committee has requested that all proposals be submitted by March 5, 2025, in both hard and electronic copies.
Ijaw Leaders Demand Two Additional States
Meanwhile, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has reiterated its call for the creation of two states—Toribé and Oil River—to address the political and economic marginalization of the Ijaw people.
INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, stated that the Niger Delta’s difficult terrain has hindered infrastructure development, leaving many communities without essential services. He emphasized that despite being Nigeria’s fourth-largest ethnic group, the Ijaw people have only one homogeneous state, Bayelsa.
Okaba urged the National Assembly leadership to prioritize their demand, arguing that the creation of Toribé and Oil River States would correct historical injustices, promote political inclusion, and drive economic growth in the region.