The discussion around creating additional states in Nigeria has resurfaced, with various stakeholders debating its merits and potential drawbacks. Advocates argue that it will bring governance closer to the people, enhance infrastructure development, and generate more job opportunities, particularly for the youth. Critics, however, caution that it could lead to increased government expenditure, deepen ethnic divisions, and further strain the country’s financial resources. As Nigeria grapples with high unemployment rates, economic challenges, and political instability, it is essential to evaluate whether state creation will indeed open new doors of opportunity or merely expand the layers of bureaucracy.
Nigeria currently has 36 states, but many regions continue to demand further subdivision, citing marginalisation and the need for more equitable resource distribution. Since the country transitioned to a federal system, state creation has often been driven by political, economic, and ethnic considerations. However, a key question remains: will additional states truly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians, especially the youth, who make up about 60% of the country’s population?
With unemployment at 33.3% as of 2021, according to the National Bureau of Statistics, there is a pressing need for change. Youth unemployment is even higher, intensifying the urgency. Economic policies must be designed to generate sustainable jobs. The establishment of new states could create job openings in governance, administration, and civil service, potentially reducing the unemployment burden.
One of the strongest arguments for state creation is that it brings governance and development closer to the people. A newly created state would require a new administrative structure, including a governor, commissioners, local government councils, and legislative bodies. This expansion of governance could create direct employment for thousands of people. Additionally, new states would require the construction of state capitals, government buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. This could potentially boost economic activities in those areas. The construction industry alone, which already employs millions of Nigerians, could experience significant growth as new projects emerge. The real estate sector would also benefit, as demand for housing, office spaces, and commercial buildings would increase.
Furthermore, state creation could improve access to government resources and services. Larger states often neglect the interests of many regions in Nigeria, causing those areas to suffer from underdevelopment. A newly created state could focus on the peculiar needs of its people, ensuring more targeted development projects.
For instance, if a state is carved out of an existing one with a significant agricultural economy, the new government could prioritise agribusiness, creating specialised policies and incentives that benefit local farmers and agro-industrialists. By providing better road networks, irrigation systems, and access to credit, such a state could drive economic growth. These improvements were previously impossible under a larger, less focused administration.
Despite these potential benefits, state creation also comes with considerable risks. A major concern is the financial sustainability of new states. Many existing states in Nigeria already struggle to generate sufficient internally generated revenue (IGR) and rely heavily on federal allocations. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, only Lagos State generates significant revenue independently. Many other states depend on oil revenue shared by the federal government.
The creation of new states could increase this dependency. It may lead to financial instability if the new states fail to develop viable economic strategies. Without a strong economic base, a new state may become a burden rather than an asset. This could further exacerbate the challenges of governance.
Another issue is the cost of governance. More states mean more governors, lawmakers, commissioners, and government officials, all of whom require salaries, allowances, and operational budgets. At a time when Nigeria is battling a public debt of over ₦77 trillion as of 2023, according to the Debt Management Office, adding more administrative expenses might not be the most prudent decision. Instead of creating new states, some experts suggest improving governance efficiency in existing states by reducing wastage, increasing transparency, and fostering economic diversification.
Beyond economic concerns, the process of state creation could also fuel ethnic and political tensions. Disagreements over boundary demarcations, resource control, and ethnic representation have often marked Nigeria’s history of state creation. In a country with over 250 ethnic groups, the question of who gets what can become contentious. If not carefully managed, new states could lead to disputes over land ownership, political dominance, and access to resources. Such conflicts could, in turn, undermine the very development that state creation aims to achieve.
Although state creation may not solve all of Nigeria’s economic and political challenges, we cannot dismiss its potential entirely. If properly executed, it could serve as a catalyst for regional development, encourage industrialisation, and promote economic self-sufficiency. However, for it to be truly beneficial, it must be accompanied by well-thought-out policies that prioritise economic viability.
New states must not be created solely for political gains but must have the capacity to sustain themselves through internally generated revenue. Moreover, adequate attention must be given to education, skills development, and entrepreneurship to ensure that youths are not just absorbed into government jobs but are also empowered to drive economic growth independently.
Ultimately, whether additional states will signal new opportunities depends on the approach taken. If it becomes another avenue for political patronage and corruption, it will likely fall short. Instead of helping, it could lead to increased government expenditure. In that case, it would fail to provide any meaningful benefits
However, if it is accompanied by economic reforms, improved governance structures, and deliberate efforts to empower the youth, it could create a more inclusive and dynamic economic environment. As the debate continues, policymakers must focus on sustainable development rather than short-term political interests.
Nigeria’s youth deserve more than just additional states. They need greater opportunities. They need access to innovation and economic empowerment. These are the tools that will secure their future in a rapidly changing world.
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