KANO – Stakeholders across the North-West geopolitical zone have reignited calls for the creation of new states, citing the need for equitable development, improved governance, and enhanced security. The proposals were submitted during the North-West zonal public hearing of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), held over the weekend in Kano.
At the two-day event, held on Saturday and Sunday, various groups presented memoranda advocating the creation of several new states: Bayajidda and Karaduwa from Katsina State; Kainji from parts of Kebbi and Niger States; Tiga and Ghari from Kano State; Gurara and New Kaduna from Kaduna State; and Hadeja from Jigawa State.
Leading the charge for Kainji State, Chairman of the movement, Ahmed Musa Ibeto, told the committee that the proposed state would comprise Zuru Emirate in Kebbi State and Kontagora and Borgu Emirates in Niger State. He emphasized that these emirates share a long history of administrative and cultural ties dating back to the colonial era.
“When created, Kainji State will have an estimated population of 2.2 million and span 36,800 square kilometres, placing it among the 10 largest states in Nigeria,” Ibeto said. He stressed that the creation would address pressing security challenges and foster justice and equity for the people.
For Gurara State, Mr. Mark Jacob, a representative of the agitation group, affirmed that their proposal complied fully with Section 8 of the Nigerian Constitution. He noted that all necessary endorsements— including those of the Kaduna State governor and members of the State House of Assembly — had been secured.
Jacob highlighted the proposed state’s rich endowment of human and natural resources such as ginger, columbite, and other solid minerals, arguing that these could drive economic self-reliance and reduce dependence on federal allocations.
“This is a unanimous demand from both Northern and Southern Kaduna. Gurara State will not only enhance governance and peace but also unlock economic potential,” he added.
Proponents of Karaduwa State also made a compelling case, proposing a structure of 11 local government areas, with room for expansion. They described the area as rich in agricultural potential, which, if fully tapped, could significantly contribute to national food security.
They emphasized that state creation would promote inclusiveness, bring governance closer to the people, and spur economic development across underserved communities.
The hearing was presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who chairs the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution. He assured stakeholders that all submissions would be thoroughly reviewed in line with constitutional provisions and national interest.
The renewed agitation for state creation underscores growing regional sentiments for structural adjustments within Nigeria’s federal system, with calls for a more balanced allocation of political power and resources.
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