A major breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts toward inclusive governance and equitable state creation is taking shape, as overwhelming senatorial support has coalesced behind the proposed creation of Anioma State, which would become the sixth state in the Southeast geopolitical zone.
More than 90 Senators well above the constitutionally required two-thirds majority have reportedly thrown their weight behind Senate Bill 481, indicating that the initiative has achieved a level of national consensus rarely seen in constitutional matters.
Spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District, the bill is part of the broader constitutional amendment process currently underway in the 10th National Assembly. The legislation aims to correct the historic imbalance in the number of states in Nigeria’s geopolitical zones by creating Anioma State from Delta North, thereby enhancing national cohesion, equity, and federal balance.
Significantly, support for the bill has cut across party lines, religious divides, and regional affiliations, with several influential figures lending their endorsement.
Among those publicly backing the proposal are:
- Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin
- Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele
- Senate Leader, Abba Moro
- Former Governors: Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia)
- Southeast political heavyweight, Victor Umeh
- Former Ogun Governor, Gbenga Daniel
- FCT Senator, Ireti Kingibe
- Former Plateau Governor, Simon Lalong
- Anambra North Senator, Tony Nwoye
This wide-ranging support has been interpreted as a strong sign of the national appeal and viability of the Anioma State movement, which has long been the subject of grassroots advocacy and regional lobbying.
In a formal letter dated May 27, 2025, Senator Nwoko appealed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers to back the legislation. In his appeal, he emphasized the urgent need for justice, equitable representation, and inclusive development, especially in light of the Southeast’s longstanding underrepresentation in Nigeria’s political structure.
Political commentators have hailed the progress of Senate Bill 481 as a turning point marking the transformation of a regional agitation into a legitimate legislative endeavor with real chances of both legislative passage and executive assent.
With momentum growing and bipartisan support firmly in place, Anioma State may soon become a defining symbol of Nigeria’s evolving federalism and commitment to balanced development.
