Nigeria Proposes 31 New States – Here’s What You Need to Know

Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has proposed the creation of 31 new states, which, if approved, would increase the total number of states from 36 to 67. This would be the most significant restructuring since Nigeria last created states in 1996.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu introduced the proposal during a plenary session on Thursday, listing the states recommended across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The aim is to address long-standing demands for better governance, economic development, and regional balance.

Key Highlights of the Proposal

• The proposal was formally introduced during a plenary session on Thursday, with Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu reading the list of suggested new states.
• The recommendations address calls for improved governance, economic viability, and regional balance.
• New states have been proposed across all six geopolitical zones.

Proposed New States by Region:

• North Central: Okun, Okura, Confluence (Kogi); Benue Ala, Apa (Benue); one from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
• North East: Amana (Adamawa), Katagum (Bauchi), Savannah (Borno), Muri (Taraba).
• North West: New Kaduna, Gurara (Kaduna); Tiga, Ari (Kano); Kainji (Kebbi).
• South-South: Ogoja (Cross River), Warri (Delta), Bori, Obolo (Rivers), Toru-Ebe (Edo, Delta, Ondo).
• South East: Adada (Enugu), Anioma (Delta).
• South West: Ibadan (Oyo), Lagoon (Lagos), Ijebu (Ogun), Oke Ogun/Ijesha (Oyo, Ogun, Osun).

What’s Next?

Creating new states is a complex process that requires adherence to Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution. This includes:

• A two-thirds majority vote from various legislative bodies.
• A referendum in the affected areas.
• Approval from a significant number of state assemblies.

Reactions to the Proposal

The proposal has sparked mixed reactions:

• Supporters see it as a move towards decentralization, improving governance and stimulating regional development.
• Critics worry about increased administrative costs, strain on federal resources, and potential political motivations behind the move.
• There is also debate on whether new states will genuinely solve governance issues or simply redistribute political power.

As discussions unfold, Nigerians are keenly watching to see if this ambitious plan will move forward or face roadblocks in the legislative process.