The National Assembly Joint Committee on Constitution Review has approved the creation of six additional states across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The decision was reached at the end of a two-day retreat in Lagos, co-chaired by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
According to committee insiders, the move seeks to promote equity, regional balance, and fair representation in governance. Lawmakers believe the new states will help address long-standing demands for inclusion and autonomy, especially in areas that have felt politically sidelined.
If implemented, Nigeria’s total number of states will rise from 36 to 42, marking one of the most significant political shifts since the country’s last state creation exercise.
Six Zones, Six New States
Each geopolitical zone—North West, North East, North Central, South West, South South, and South East—is set to benefit from the creation of one new state.
The committee said this balanced approach was designed to prevent regional tension and ensure fairness nationwide.
If the proposal scales through, the South South and South West will each have seven states, the South East will increase to six, while the North West, North East, and North Central will have eight, seven, and seven states respectively.
A subcommittee led by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno has been tasked with identifying the specific areas that will become the new states. The team will review 55 pending requests for state creation submitted to the National Assembly and ensure a transparent selection process.
Political and Economic Impact
Analysts say the new structure could reshape Nigeria’s political and economic landscape, expanding administrative responsibilities while creating more opportunities for local development.
Supporters believe the change will improve governance and bring government closer to the people, while critics warn of potential higher costs and bureaucratic challenges.
A senior committee member described the resolution as a “rare show of national unity,” confirming that it received broad bipartisan support from both chambers.
The committee’s final report will be presented to the Senate and House of Representatives in the first week of November for consideration and possible adoption.
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