IntroductionNigeria, Africa's most populous nation with 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, continues to witness persistent calls for new state creation. From the Southeast's push for equity to various ethnic and regional groups, demands for additional states remain a hot topic in constitutional reviews and political discourse. From Aba State to Warri State proposals, there are 31 proposals agitating for new state in Nigeria that if approved, states in Nigeria will amount to 67. Proponents argue that more states could address longstanding imbalances. This article explores the primary reasons for the demand for more states in Nigeria, highlighting why many believe this structural change is essential for national progress.
Six (6) Reasons for Demands for More States in Nigeria: Key Reasons Driving the Agitation1. Fear of Ethnic Domination and MarginalizationA core driver is the fear of domination by majority ethnic groups. Nigeria's over 250 ethnic nationalities create tensions where minorities feel overshadowed in larger states. Groups like the Ogoja people historically agitated for separation to escape majority control. Today, similar sentiments fuel demands in regions where smaller ethnic communities seek autonomy to preserve their identity and interests. Creating new states is viewed as a way to protect minority rights and reduce inter-ethnic conflicts.2. Quest for Better Political Representation and EquityUnequal state distribution across geopolitical zones breeds resentment. The Southeast, with only five states compared to others with six or seven, often cites this imbalance in federal appointments, revenue sharing, and political power. More states would increase representation in the National Assembly, governorships, and resource allocation formulas. Advocates argue this fosters fairness, giving underrepresented areas a stronger voice in national decisions.3. Desire for Closer Governance and Administrative EfficiencyBringing government closer to the people is a major argument. Large states make it difficult for citizens in remote areas to access services like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security. New states would decentralize administration, enabling tailored policies for local needs. This proximity could improve grassroots development, reduce bureaucratic delays, and enhance accountability.4. Access to Resources and Economic BenefitsMany agitations stem from the belief that new states unlock better resource control and federal allocations. States receive statutory funds from the federation account, and more states mean more shares for specific groups. Proponents claim this could boost local economies through targeted investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and industries, ultimately reducing poverty and fostering inclusive growth.5. Promotion of National Unity and StabilityIronically, some see state creation as a tool for unity. By addressing grievances of marginalization, new states could ease separatist tensions and promote peaceful coexistence. Historical state creations in 1967, 1976, 1987, 1991, and 1996 helped manage diversity and stabilize the federation. Supporters argue that proactive restructuring prevents escalation of ethnic rivalries.6. Response to Population Pressure and Developmental NeedsRapid population growth strains existing structures. Overcrowded states struggle with service delivery, leading to demands for subdivision to manage resources effectively. New states could distribute developmental projects more evenly, spurring balanced national progress.
Conclusion The demand for more states in Nigeria arises from deep-rooted concerns over equity, representation, ethnic security, and efficient governance. While critics highlight economic burdens and viability issues, advocates maintain that thoughtful state creation could strengthen federalism and unity. As constitutional reviews continue, these reasons remain central to Nigeria's evolving political landscape.
Six (6) Reasons for Demands for More States in Nigeria: Key Reasons Driving the Agitation1. Fear of Ethnic Domination and MarginalizationA core driver is the fear of domination by majority ethnic groups. Nigeria's over 250 ethnic nationalities create tensions where minorities feel overshadowed in larger states. Groups like the Ogoja people historically agitated for separation to escape majority control. Today, similar sentiments fuel demands in regions where smaller ethnic communities seek autonomy to preserve their identity and interests. Creating new states is viewed as a way to protect minority rights and reduce inter-ethnic conflicts.2. Quest for Better Political Representation and EquityUnequal state distribution across geopolitical zones breeds resentment. The Southeast, with only five states compared to others with six or seven, often cites this imbalance in federal appointments, revenue sharing, and political power. More states would increase representation in the National Assembly, governorships, and resource allocation formulas. Advocates argue this fosters fairness, giving underrepresented areas a stronger voice in national decisions.3. Desire for Closer Governance and Administrative EfficiencyBringing government closer to the people is a major argument. Large states make it difficult for citizens in remote areas to access services like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security. New states would decentralize administration, enabling tailored policies for local needs. This proximity could improve grassroots development, reduce bureaucratic delays, and enhance accountability.4. Access to Resources and Economic BenefitsMany agitations stem from the belief that new states unlock better resource control and federal allocations. States receive statutory funds from the federation account, and more states mean more shares for specific groups. Proponents claim this could boost local economies through targeted investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and industries, ultimately reducing poverty and fostering inclusive growth.5. Promotion of National Unity and StabilityIronically, some see state creation as a tool for unity. By addressing grievances of marginalization, new states could ease separatist tensions and promote peaceful coexistence. Historical state creations in 1967, 1976, 1987, 1991, and 1996 helped manage diversity and stabilize the federation. Supporters argue that proactive restructuring prevents escalation of ethnic rivalries.6. Response to Population Pressure and Developmental NeedsRapid population growth strains existing structures. Overcrowded states struggle with service delivery, leading to demands for subdivision to manage resources effectively. New states could distribute developmental projects more evenly, spurring balanced national progress.
Conclusion The demand for more states in Nigeria arises from deep-rooted concerns over equity, representation, ethnic security, and efficient governance. While critics highlight economic burdens and viability issues, advocates maintain that thoughtful state creation could strengthen federalism and unity. As constitutional reviews continue, these reasons remain central to Nigeria's evolving political landscape.
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