BREAKING: Tinubu to Approve Creation of New States

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reportedly set to endorse the creation of Ijebu State, following a critical meeting with the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. The meeting, held on January 5 at Tinubu’s Lagos residence, addressed the decades-long agitation for Ijebu State to be carved out of Ogun State.  

According to People’s Gazette, the Awujale highlighted that Ijebu remains the only colonial-era province yet to achieve statehood. He emphasized that the area has the necessary resources for sustainability, including industrial estates, a developing airport, and significant infrastructure.  

“The president didn’t allow Awujale to overflog the matter before agreeing,” a source familiar with the meeting revealed.  

The push for Ijebu State gained renewed momentum in November 2024 when Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, introduced a bill in the National Assembly seeking to amend Nigeria’s constitution to facilitate the creation of the new state. The bill has since advanced through legislative stages under Senate President Godswill Akpabio.  

While the development has been celebrated in many quarters, it has also sparked debate. Critics argue that Nigeria should focus on pressing challenges, such as poverty and high national debt, rather than creating additional states. Others believe the move may be politically motivated, with speculations that new states could bolster Tinubu’s support ahead of the 2027 elections.  

Supporters of the initiative, however, maintain that Ijebu State has the potential to thrive and accelerate development in the region.  

This development comes amidst discussions about the potential creation of other states, such as Anioma from Delta State, which could increase Nigeria’s total states from the current 36 to 56 if fully implemented.  

Further updates on this landmark decision are expected in the coming weeks.