The House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee has received legislative proposals to establish 31 new states across different regions of Nigeria.
This development was officially presented during Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Proposed States by Region
According to the report, the proposals cover all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria:
North Central: Okun, Okura, Confluence (from Kogi); Benue Ala, Apa-Agba, Apa (from Benue); and FCT state.
North East: Amana (Adamawa), Katagum (Bauchi), Savannah (Borno), Muri (Taraba).
North West: New Kaduna, Gujarat (Kaduna); Tiga, Ari (Kano); Kainji (Kebbi).
South East: Etiti, Orashi, Adada (Enugu), Orlu, Aba.
South South: Ogoja (Cross River), Warri (Delta), Ori, Obolo (Rivers).
South West: Torumbe (Ondo), Ibadan (Oyo), Lagoon (Lagos), Ijebu (Ogun), Oke Ogun/Ijesha (Oyo/Ogun/Osun).
Legislative Requirements for State Creation
The committee outlined the constitutional steps required for the approval of new states. According to Section 8 of the Nigerian Constitution, any new state creation must be supported by:
1. A two-thirds majority vote in the National Assembly.
2. Approval from the State House of Assembly and Local Government Councils in the affected areas.
3. A referendum where the votes from state assemblies must be forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration.
The committee emphasized that proposals must strictly follow these guidelines to be considered.
Submissions are required in three hard copies and must be sent to the Committee Secretariat in the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, with electronic copies forwarded to the designated email address.
A Step Toward Restructuring?
The push for new states has been a long-debated topic in Nigeria’s political landscape.
While some argue that it will promote better governance and resource allocation, others raise concerns about its economic viability and administrative challenges.
What’s Your Take?
Do you think the creation of new states will improve governance or add more complications? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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