 |
| Akpabio: National Assembly Backs Anioma State Creation Plan |
Summary
Senate Signals Strong Support: Senate President Godswill Akpabio says lawmakers are largely in favour of creating Anioma State, with the proposal under active consideration in the current Senate.
Federal Government Position Stated: The administration of President Bola Tinubu is said to be in support of the plan, which is aimed at improving governance and regional balance.
Proposed Capitals Identified: Asaba is projected to become the capital of Anioma State, while Warri may serve as the capital of a restructured Delta State due to its existing infrastructure.
Political Leaders Gather in Asaba: Governors and party stakeholders from across the South-South attended the APC zonal congress where the issue was discussed.
Momentum Builds in National Assembly: Senator Ned Nwoko says dozens of senators have endorsed the proposal, with constitutional review processes already underway.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said the National Assembly is firmly behind the proposed creation of Anioma State.
He spoke in Asaba during the South-South Zonal Congress of the All Progressives Congress, where party members and leaders gathered from across the region.
Akpabio explained that the push for the new state is receiving attention in the Senate and also aligns with the position of the federal government led by Bola Tinubu.
According to him, creating Anioma State could help improve administration, bring government closer to the people, and support more balanced development in the area.
He also outlined how the arrangement may work if approved. Asaba is expected to serve as the capital of Anioma State, while Warri would take over as the capital of the remaining Delta State.
Akpabio noted that Warri already has facilities that can support such a role, including an airport, seaport, oil industry presence, and other key public infrastructure.
He acknowledged the role of Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North, for driving the proposal within the National Assembly.
Speaking on the expected impact, Akpabio said the move is intended to promote fair development and give communities in the area a stronger sense of inclusion.
The meeting in Asaba drew several top political figures, including governors from states in the South-South, alongside party officials and stakeholders.
Akpabio added that the demand for Anioma State has been on for years and reflects the aspirations of the people in the area.
Earlier, in November 2025, Senator Ned Nwoko said support for the proposal had increased significantly in the Senate.
He disclosed that 97 senators had already endorsed the plan, adding that it is currently being reviewed by committees handling constitutional amendments as part of wider legislative reforms.