BY KENNETH ORUSI
A renewed push for the creation of Anioma State has taken center stage in Delta State’s political discourse, led by Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
The call for the new state, which has been a longstanding aspiration of the Anioma people, gained significant momentum as the senator provided an update on the legislative process and national backing for the initiative.
Speaking on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at a high-profile community engagement in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area, Senator Nwoko addressed stakeholders and supporters during an event organized by the APC Women Support Group, in collaboration with Rita Daniels Single Parenthood Initiative, the Girl Child Initiative, and the Regina Daniels Charity and Development Foundation.
In his speech, Nwoko reiterated his commitment to seeing the creation of Anioma State come to fruition, highlighting the critical progress already made at the federal legislative level.
According to him, the proposed bill has passed both first and second readings in the Senate without a single objection and is currently being reviewed at the committee stage—a significant step toward the realization of a new state in Nigeria.
“In the Senate, I serve on the Constitutional Amendment Committee, one of the most important committees in the National Assembly. This committee has 37 senators drawn from across the country, and I am proud to be the representative of Delta State on it. The proposal for Anioma State has already made it to this level, which is no small feat,” Nwoko said.
The senator explained that the next phase of the legislative process would involve a public hearing, during which Nigerians, especially indigenes of Delta North and supporters of state creation, will be able to share their views.
“We are now preparing for a public hearing in the coming months. That is the next major milestone. After that, the bill will return to the Senate for a third and final reading before it is forwarded to the President for assent.
“At that point, the executive arm of government will be in a position to fulfill its promise and complete the process,” he added.
Nwoko urged his constituents to remain hopeful and engaged, emphasizing that their active participation during the public hearing would form part of the final outcome.
“I encourage everyone who can make it to Abuja during the public hearing to come and lend their voice. This is a historic moment for Anioma people and for the future of Delta North. Your presence will be powerful,” he told the audience.
The call for Anioma State, which would potentially be carved out of Delta North Senatorial District with Asaba as its capital, has been a subject of debate and advocacy for decades. Supporters argue that the creation of the state would address issues of marginalization, boost development, and ensure more equitable representation at the federal level.
Senator Nwoko echoed these sentiments, outlining the socio-economic benefits of the proposed state.
“If Anioma becomes a state, we would no longer be sharing key positions with other zones. We would have our own governor, deputy governor, commissioners, and others. Additionally, we will have three senators representing Anioma state—which means a stronger voice at the federal level,” he said.
He further explained that more states translate into more job opportunities, greater federal presence, and increased budgetary allocations for development projects. According to him, the proposal is not just about political recognition, but also about creating new avenues for growth and empowerment.
“Imagine what this would mean for our youths—more schools, more roads, more hospitals, and more funding for social development. It’s a win-win for everyone,” he said.
Senator Nwoko also noted that the Anioma State proposal has received support from various quarters at the national level, including senior figures in the ruling party, the President, and lawmakers from different geopolitical zones.
“The leadership of the country understands the significance of this move. From the President to the National Woman Leader, and from our colleagues in the Senate, there is growing support. They’ve all said the same thing: if we push it from our end, they’ll help us finish it,” he shared.
While addressing the political history of Anioma’s representation in the Senate, Nwoko reflected on the past, stating that previous senators had not prioritized state creation as a central legislative agenda.
He clarified that his approach is different, and that he remains determined to complete the work that others may have initiated but were unable to advance.
“I am not the first Anioma senator. We’ve had Senator Osakwe, Senator Okowa, Senator Nwaoboshi before me. But this time, we are taking it all the way. I didn’t start this journey, but as I always say, I will finish the race,” he declared confidently.
The senator’s remarks have ignited renewed optimism among supporters of the Anioma State initiative, who believe that the current political climate may finally be favorable for the long-envisioned goal.
Observers say the increasing support for the state’s creation and the legislative progress it has made could reshape the political landscape of Delta State ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially as conversations about representation, equity, and identity take center stage once again.
Senator Nwoko concluded his speech with a passionate appeal to unity and cooperation among Anioma people and other stakeholders across the state.
“This is not about division—it is about development. It is about fairness and inclusion. We want a state where our people can thrive, where our culture is celebrated, and where we can contribute more significantly to the progress of Nigeria,” he said.
As preparations continue for the public hearing, all eyes remain on Abuja and the Senate chambers where the fate of Anioma State now lies.
