The House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee's proposal to create 31 new states in Nigeria has sparked widespread reactions from various political and socio-cultural groups. During Thursday’s plenary, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu read the proposal, which recommends new states across all geopolitical zones. The breakdown includes six in the North-Central, four in the North-East, five in the North-West, five in the South-South, and seven in the South-West. Some of the proposed states include Okun, Confluence, Amana, Katagum, Etiti, Adada, Ogoja, Warri, Ibadan, and Lagoon. The proposal has faced strong opposition from the Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere and the northern Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF). Afenifere criticized the move, arguing that it undermines true federalism and would worsen governance inefficiencies. The ACF described it as unnecessary and economically unviable, citing the financial struggles of existing states.
The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), however, supported the proposal, viewing it as a step toward equity and better governance. Similarly, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, representing the South-East, demanded more states to correct historical imbalances, emphasizing that their region has fewer states compared to others. The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) suggested that state creation should be evenly distributed across geopolitical zones and based on economic sustainability.
Former lawmakers also expressed skepticism. Ex-senators and House of Representatives members dismissed the proposal as impractical, arguing that many existing states are already struggling financially. Some suggested strengthening local governments instead of creating new states. Others noted that state creation has historically been handled by military governments and questioned whether the current administration could achieve it.
A few political figures, including former Bayelsa Commissioner Markson Fefegha, supported the move, stating it could lead to more development opportunities. However, former minister Tanimu Turaki and ex-INEC Commissioner Lai Olurode dismissed the idea as unsustainable, citing governance challenges.
Overall, the debate centers on whether Nigeria should focus on restructuring and resource control rather than expanding administrative units.
