Stakeholders propose nine new states in North West

Stakeholders from the North West zone have proposed the creation of nine new states to promote development, enhance security, and ensure equity.

The proposals were submitted during a two-day public hearing in Kano over the weekend chaired by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin.

The proposed states include Bayajidda and Karaduwa (from Katsina), Kainji (from Kebbi and Niger), Tiga and Ghari (from Kano), Gurara and New Kaduna (from Kaduna), and Hadeja (from Jigawa).

Dr. Ahmed Musa Ibeto, chairman of the Kainji State Movement, said the proposed states would include the Zuru Emirate (Kebbi) and Kontagora and Borgu Emirates (Niger), with a projected population of 2.2 million and landmass of 36,800 square kilometres.

Barr. Mark Jacob, who spoke for the Gurara State advocates noted the area’s mineral wealth, economic potential and had the support of key Kaduna stakeholders.

Karaduwa State advocates said the proposed state will comprise 11 LGAs, and has the potential to boost agriculture, improve security, and bring governance closer to the people.

Meanwhile, advocates for the creation of Tiga State proposed the new state comprising the entire Kano South Senatorial District and one additional local government from Kano Central with Gwarzo serving as the capital.

The Northwest zone currently consists seven states comprising of Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara and Jigawa. If demands for new states is actualized, the zone will become 16 states in total.