The Federal Structure in Nigeria and the Creation of New States
By Comfort Chukwukelue
Introduction
Nigeria’s federal system has shaped its governance, economy, and political landscape for decades. The country’s transition from a regional system to a multi-state structure was driven by the need for administrative efficiency, ethnic representation, and national unity. However, while state creation has brought governance closer to the people, it has also led to increased dependence on federal allocations and rising governance costs.
Today, calls for the creation of new states continue to emerge from different regions, with advocates arguing that it will foster development and inclusion. However, critics believe that without proper economic planning and governance reforms, creating new states will only deepen Nigeria’s financial and administrative burdens.
This article examines Nigeria’s federal structure, the history of state creation, its impact on governance and development, and whether creating more states is the right path forward.
Understanding Nigeria’s Federal Structure
Nigeria operates a federal system of government, meaning power is shared between the central government and 36 states. Below the states are 774 local government areas (LGAs), which are meant to handle governance at the grassroots level.
However, Nigeria’s federalism has significant imbalances. The central government controls major resources, particularly oil revenue, and distributes funds to the states. Many states rely heavily on these allocations, as they generate little internal revenue. This has created a cycle of dependency, where states struggle to sustain themselves without federal support.
While federalism is meant to promote local autonomy and development, its implementation in Nigeria has often led to inefficiencies. State governments, instead of driving economic growth, frequently rely on federal funds while corruption and mismanagement hinder progress.
The Evolution of State Creation in Nigeria
From Regions to States
At independence in 1960, Nigeria was divided into three regions:
• Northern Region
• Western Region
• Eastern Region
These regions were powerful, controlling their own resources and policies. However, tensions arose as minority groups within these regions felt marginalized. The push for better representation led to the creation of the Mid-Western Region in 1963, marking the first major restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system.
Military Intervention and State Expansion
The real shift came in 1967, when General Yakubu Gowon replaced the regional structure with 12 states. This move was partly to weaken regional dominance and partly to prevent Nigeria’s breakup during the civil war.
Successive military governments continued to create more states:
• 1976: Murtala Mohammed increased the number to 19 states.
• 1987–1991: General Babangida expanded it to 30 states.
• 1996: General Abacha completed the current 36-state structure.
Each phase of state creation was driven by demands for political inclusion, economic benefits, and administrative efficiency. However, despite the promises of development, many states remain financially weak and underdeveloped.
The Impact of State Creation
Positive Outcomes
1. Increased Representation – Minority groups gained political recognition and autonomy.
2. Decentralization of Governance – State governments brought administration closer to the people.
3. Infrastructure Growth – New state capitals led to the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals.
Challenges and Drawbacks
1. Overdependence on Federal Allocations – Most states lack strong economies and survive on oil revenue distributed by the central government.
2. High Cost of Governance – More states mean more governors, commissioners, and lawmakers, increasing public spending.
3. Uneven Development – While some states have thrived, others struggle with poverty, poor governance, and lack of infrastructure.
The Renewed Call for More States
Despite the economic struggles of many states, the push for additional state creation remains strong. Ethnic groups, political leaders, and activists continue to demand new states, citing marginalization and the need for development. Some of the commonly proposed new states include:
• Anioma State (Southeast)
• Ijebu State (Southwest)
• Gurara State (North Central)
• Oil River State (South-South)
The advocates argue that new states will bring better governance and opportunities to marginalized areas. However, the question remains: will more states truly solve Nigeria’s development challenges?
The Real Issues: Governance, Economy, and Structure
Rather than continuously expanding the number of states, Nigeria’s focus should be on making existing states more viable. Some key areas that need reform include:
- True Federalism and Resource Control
• Currently, the federal government controls key resources like oil and VAT, leaving states financially weak.
• Granting states more control over their resources could encourage economic independence. - Strengthening Internal Revenue Generation
• Many states rely on federal allocations rather than generating their own income.
• States should invest in agriculture, tourism, and industry to boost their economies. - Local Government Autonomy
• Most local governments are controlled by state governors, limiting their effectiveness.
• Strengthening LGAs can improve grassroots development and reduce pressure on state governments. - Reducing Cost of Governance
• Nigeria’s public sector is bloated, with excessive government spending on political offices.
• Cutting down unnecessary administrative costs could free up resources for infrastructure and social services.
Conclusion: Is State Creation the Solution?
While the creation of states in Nigeria has played a role in expanding political representation and governance, it has not necessarily translated into sustainable development. The country now faces a choice: continue creating more states with weak economic foundations or focus on strengthening the governance and financial independence of existing states.
Without true federalism, economic restructuring, and governance reforms, the addition of new states will only increase administrative costs without solving Nigeria’s deeper issues. Instead of looking to state creation as a solution, Nigeria must address the inefficiencies within its federal system and empower states to drive their own development.
Only then can Nigeria achieve a balanced and effective federal structure that serves all its citizens.
