The House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee has proposed the creation of 31 additional states, adding to Nigeria’s existing 36.
This move has triggered widespread reactions from prominent Nigerians and socio-cultural groups.
The proposal was announced during Thursday’s plenary by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu in the absence of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
The committee, chaired by Kalu, outlined plans for new states across different geopolitical zones, including North-Central, North-East, North-West, South-South, and South-West.
However, the proposal faced strong opposition from groups such as Afenifere and the Arewa Consultative Forum, which criticized it as impractical and economically unviable.
According to Punch, Afenifere argued that true federalism and power devolution should take priority over state creation. The ACF echoed concerns about the financial burden and administrative challenges of adding more states.
On the other hand, the Middle Belt Forum and some regional leaders welcomed the proposal, citing the need for equity in governance and representation. Ohanaeze Ndigbo also demanded more states for the South-East, arguing that the region has been historically shortchanged.
Former lawmakers and political analysts expressed skepticism, with many questioning the economic sustainability of the new states. Some called for regional governance reforms instead, emphasizing the need to strengthen local governments and enhance resource control at the state level.
The proposal remains a subject of debate, with many awaiting further discussions and public scrutiny before any final decision is made.
