ABUJA/Nigeria: Momentum for the creation of Anioma State has gained significant traction as the Nigerian Senate has slated a public hearing on the proposal for July 4th and 5th, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The hearing follows the successful first and second readings of the Anioma State creation bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly. It marks a pivotal phase in the legislative process for what proponents describe as a long-overdue restructuring for fairness, cultural recognition, and administrative balance in Nigeria’s federal structure.
Stakeholders from across Delta North and beyond — including traditional rulers, intellectuals, community leaders, youth and women groups, and socio-cultural organizations, are expected to make formal presentations and contributions during the session.
Speaking in an interview ahead of the public hearing, Senator Nwoko described the event as “historic” and called for mass participation from all segments of Anioma society. He reiterated that the movement for Anioma State was not born out of personal ambition, but rather the fulfillment of a long-standing collective aspiration.
“This is a compelling historical movement,” Senator Nwoko said. “Legendary figures like Sir Dennis Osadebay, Obi Professor Chike Edozien, and Senator Nosike Ikpo initiated the agitation. These departed heroes dreamt of Anioma as a beacon of genuine progress and cultural identity.”
He maintained that the people of Delta North overwhelmingly support the creation of Anioma State and that the effort enjoys increasing political momentum across the country.
“I am confident in the realization of Anioma State. President Bola Tinubu is responsive and sympathetic to the cause. The National Assembly has been receptive, and majority of Nigerian states, particularly from the South-South and South-East, are showing clear signs of support. The goodwill is encouraging,” he said.
The Senator, widely respected for his audacity and legislative accomplishments, is credited with initiating the Paris Club loan refund scheme that significantly eased Nigeria’s economic crisis during a recession. He is also recognized as the first Black African to embark on an expedition to Antarctica and as founder of the first sports university in Sub-Saharan Africa.
With public anticipation building, the upcoming Senate public hearing is widely seen as a crucial step in translating a decades-long aspiration into constitutional and political reality.
