List of 31 Proposed New States in Nigeria: Key Details and Implications for the Country’s Future

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, the Nigerian House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review revealed an ambitious proposal to create 31 new states across the country. If approved, Nigeria’s political landscape will be dramatically altered, increasing the number of states from the current 36 to 67, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This major shift could have profound impacts on governance, development, and resource allocation throughout the nation.

Why Is Nigeria Proposing 31 New States?

The proposal, read out during a plenary session by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, is part of ongoing efforts to restructure Nigeria’s political and administrative framework. The main goal is to bring governance closer to the people, ensuring that local communities receive more focused attention in terms of development and resource distribution.

According to the proposed bill, the creation of these new states will follow a specific constitutional process, including support from the National Assembly, local governments, and State Houses of Assembly. The proposal aims to balance the political landscape and address issues of marginalization that have affected some regions.

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Key Requirements for State Creation

As outlined in the proposal, several conditions must be met for the creation of new states:

1. Majority Support: A bill for state creation must pass with support from at least a third of the National Assembly members.
2. Local Support: Local governments and State Houses of Assembly must express formal approval for the creation of new states in their respective regions.
3. Constitutional Compliance: The new states must adhere to Section 8 of the Constitution, which includes holding a referendum to confirm public support.

Full List of Proposed New States

Here’s a breakdown of the 31 proposed states:

1. Kogi State:
   • Okun State
   • Okura State
   • Confluence State
2. Benue State:
   • Benue Ala State
   • Apa State
3. Federal Capital Territory (FCT): Proposal for a standalone state
4. Adamawa State:
   • Amana State
5. Bauchi State:
   • Katagum State
6. Borno State:
   • Savannah State
7. Taraba State:
   • Muri State
8. Kaduna State:
   • New Kaduna State
   • Gujarat State
9. Kano State:
   • Tiga State
   • Ari State
10. Kebbi State:
    • Kainji State
11. South East:
    • Etiti State
    • Orashi State (proposed as the 6th state)
12. Enugu State:
    • Adada State
13. Cross River State:
    • Ogoja State
14. Delta State:
    • Warri State
15. Rivers State:
    • Ori State
    • Obolo State
16. Ondo State:
    • Torumbe State
17. Oyo State:
    • Ibadan State
18. Lagos State:
    • Lagoon State
19. Ogun State:
    • Ogun State
    • Ijebu State
20. Osun State:
    • Oke Ogun/Ijesha State

These proposed states span a variety of regions, aiming to bring administrative and developmental resources closer to local populations. The new states could provide more efficient governance and allow for better management of resources, particularly in rural areas.

Implications of the Proposed States

1. Political Restructuring: The creation of these new states would redefine Nigeria’s political landscape, potentially shifting the balance of power and resource distribution.
2. Economic Development: New states could lead to increased investment in local infrastructure, improved public services, and job creation, especially if governments focus on the unique needs of these areas.
3. Social and Cultural Impact: While the creation of new states could strengthen regional identities, it also raises questions about the integration of different cultural groups, ethnicities, and languages.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the potential benefits, the proposal is not without challenges. The creation of new states requires extensive consultation, legislative approval, and constitutional amendments. There will likely be debates around the cost of setting up new governments, as well as concerns about how to divide national resources equitably.

Conclusion

If passed, the proposal for 31 new states in Nigeria will significantly reshape the country’s governance framework, addressing regional concerns and improving local administration. While the plan is promising, it is crucial that all stakeholders, including the National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and local communities, continue to engage in the process to ensure that the new states are a force for unity, development, and progress.

Source: Daily Post