GODSWILL-AKPABIO
Tosin Ogunrinde
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has confirmed that Anioma State will be created with Asaba as its capital. This announcement was made during the APC South-South zonal congress in Asaba, Delta State. Akpabio emphasized that the creation of Anioma State will bring development to the region and stated that Warri will become the capital of the remaining Delta State.
The proposal, championed by Senator Ned Nwoko, has received legislative attention and is expected to boost regional representation and accelerate growth. The official bill designates Asaba as the capital, comprising nine local government areas in Delta North Senatorial District, with no plans to annex neighboring Anambra State.
The creation of Anioma State has been a long-standing demand of the Anioma people, who feel that they have been marginalized and neglected in the distribution of resources and development projects. The new state is expected to provide opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and improved infrastructure.
Asaba, the designated capital, is a strategic location with existing infrastructure, including a major airport and proximity to the River Niger. The city’s selection is seen as a nod to its historical significance and potential for growth.
The bill for the creation of Anioma State has undergone its first reading and is expected to go through the necessary legislative processes. If successful, it will pave the way for the establishment of the new state.
The creation of Anioma State is seen as a positive development for the region, which has been plagued by underdevelopment and insecurity. The new state is expected to bring government closer to the people and address the challenges facing the area.
The process of creating a new state in Nigeria involves several steps, including a proposal, approval by the National Assembly, and a referendum. The Anioma State bill is expected to go through these processes, with the support of lawmakers and stakeholders.
The creation of Anioma State is also expected to have implications for the 2023 elections, with politicians from the region expected to benefit from the new state’s creation. The state will have three senatorial districts and nine House of Representatives seats.
The Anioma State movement has garnered support from various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, politicians, and civil society groups. The movement argues that the creation of the state is necessary for the development of the region and the empowerment of the Anioma people.
