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, and youth unemployment even higher, there is a pressing need for economic policies that 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, potentially boosting 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. Many regions in Nigeria suffer from underdevelopment because they are part of larger states where their interests are often neglected. 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 in ways that 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, while many others depend on oil revenue shared by the federal government.
The creation of new states could increase this dependency, leading 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, further exacerbating 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. Nigeria’s history of state creation has often been marked by disagreements over boundary demarcations, resource control, and ethnic representation. 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.
While state creation may not be a silver bullet for Nigeria’s economic and political challenges, its potential cannot be dismissed 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, corruption, and increased government expenditure, it will likely fail to provide 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 not just more states, but more opportunities, innovation, and economic empowerment that will secure their future in a rapidly changing world.
__________________________________
We’re thrilled to have you as a valued member of our community! At Inside Success Nigeria, we are committed to defining brighter futures through impactful workshops, life-changing seminars, and dynamic youth engagement programmes.
Join us in this journey of transformation! Partner with us to empower youths, foster innovation, and create lasting social impact. Your support through sponsorship or collaboration will amplify our efforts to make a real difference.
Explore more inspiring content and opportunities on our website, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @InsideSuccessNigeria for exciting updates and initiatives.
Together, we can build a generation of leaders, creators, and those defining moments. Be the force behind the success!
Leave a Reply