Nigeria’s Next Chapter: Proposed 31-State Expansion Sparks Debate

By Halimot Ibrahim

Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has proposed the creation of 31 additional states, which would increase the total number of states from 36 to 67. This move aims to address demands for greater representation, economic viability, and regional balance in governance.

Breakdown of Proposed States:
North Central: Okun, Okura, Confluence (Kogi); Benue Ala, Apa (Benue); FCT State
North East: Amana (Adamawa); Katagum (Bauchi); Savannah (Borno); Muri (Taraba)
North West: New Kaduna, Gurara (Kaduna); Tiga, Ari (Kano); Kainji (Kebbi)
South East: Etiti, Orashi (as the 6th state in the South East); Adada (Enugu); Orlu (Imo); Aba (Abia)
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 the proposal to be implemented, it must undergo a rigorous constitutional process, including:

A request supported by at least two-thirds of legislative representatives from the area seeking statehood.

A referendum with at least a two-thirds majority in favor.
Approval by a two-thirds majority of the National Assembly.
Endorsement by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly.

Consequently, the proposal is expected to generate heated debates in both legislative and public discourse as it progresses through the constitutional amendment process.