STATE CREATION: A Panacea or a Pandora’s Box for Nigeria’s Development?

By Oru Leonard 

The proposal to create 31 additional states in Nigeria, bringing the total to 67, has sparked intense debate. While some argue that this move will address regional demands and improve governance, others believe it’s a hasty decision that overlooks the country’s existing challenges.

Nigeria’s politicians and those involved in managing the economy should prioritize effective governance, efficiency, and sincerity of purpose, before considering the creation of new states. The country’s current 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at Abuja already face significant challenges in harnessing their resources and contributing to the federal purse.

Key Challenges Facing Nigeria’s States

– Inefficient Resource Management: Many states struggle to effectively manage their resources, leading to underdevelopment and poverty.

– Lack of Economic Diversification: The country’s economy remains heavily reliant on oil exports, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices.

– Inadequate Infrastructure: Nigeria’s infrastructure, including roads, healthcare, and education, remains underdeveloped, hindering economic growth and development.

Creating new states without addressing these underlying challenges may exacerbate the problems rather than solve them. It is essential for Nigeria’s politicians to focus on strengthening the existing states, improving governance, and promoting economic development before considering the creation of new states.

Alternative Solutions

• State and Local Government Reforms: Implement reforms to strengthen state and local governments, enabling them to effectively manage resources and provide essential services.

• Economic Diversification: Promote economic diversification by investing in non-oil sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

• Infrastructure Development: Invest in critical infrastructure, including roads, healthcare, and education, to support economic growth and development.

By addressing these challenges and implementing alternative solutions, Nigeria can create a more stable and prosperous future for its citizens, rather than simply creating new states.

Oru Leonard Oru (frpa), is the Publisher of News Dot Africa online Newspaper, a communication strategist and Fellow of the Advertising Regulatory Commission of Nigeria.

Email: oruleonard50@gmail.com

Photo Credit: X@NASS