The North Journals
By Innocent Jonah Kalu
Nigeria’s economy is facing significant challenges, including a high poverty rate of 38.9%, inflation, and a substantial infrastructure deficit. In this context, creating more states could exacerbate these issues. Historically, state creation in Nigeria has been driven by military decrees, with General Yakubu Gowon creating 12 states in 1967, followed by General Murtala Mohammed’s creation of 7 states in 1976.
Economic Implications
Creating new states would require significant financial resources, which could be challenging for Nigeria’s economy. The country’s infrastructure deficit, high poverty rate, and inflation would need to be addressed before considering the creation of new states. Approximately 87 million Nigerians live below the poverty line, making it uncertain whether the economy can bear the additional burden of creating new states.
Historical Context
The military has played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s state structure, with subsequent military leaders, including General Ibrahim Babangida and General Sani Abacha, also creating new states. In 1985, General Ibrahim Babangida created two additional states, making it a total of 19 states in the country. Six new states were created by his successor, General Sani Abacha, in 1996.
Constitutional and Legal Framework
The creation of new states in Nigeria is guided by Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the procedures for state creation. However, this process is often contentious and influenced by political considerations.
While there are potential benefits to decentralization and economic development, the economy’s viability and the potential for increased inequality and administrative complexity cannot be ignored. As the Nigerian government weighs this decision, it’s essential to prioritize transparency, accountability, and good governance in the creation and management of new states.
Innocent Jonah Kalu
