Senate Announces New State Creation; Names Capital

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reaffirmed legislative and political backing for the creation of Anioma state.

Akpabio spoke on Wednesday, while addressing party members at the South-South zonal congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Asaba, Delta state.

The Senate president said the President Bola Tinubu administration remains committed to the initiative.

Akpabio said Warri would serve as the capital of the new Delta state if Anioma is created.

He said Warri already has key infrastructure, including an airport, government offices, major oil companies, a seaport, and a stadium.

Governors of Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River attended the congress.

Other political leaders and party stakeholders from across the south-south region were also at the event.

Akpabio described the agitation for Anioma state as historically justified, noting that the proposal reflects a long-standing aspiration rooted in equity, administrative efficiency, and balanced development.

The Senate president said the initiative, championed by Ned Nwoko, senator representing Delta North, has continued to receive legislative attention.

Akpabio added that the proposal ranks among the priorities of the 10th Senate, adding that the creation of Anioma state would come with socio-economic and administrative benefits.

The ex-Akwa Ibom governor said the restructuring would split Delta state into two viable entities and promote decentralisation.

“Anioma state will be created, with Asaba as its capital. The Senate fully supports the initiative spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko,” he said.

“This step will usher in a new era of development and shared prosperity for all constituent communities.

“With Asaba as Anioma state capital, Warri will be the capital of the new Delta.”

Akpabio also called for unity among the people of the South-South region.

He urged stakeholders to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, emphasising that such support would promote sustainable growth and national integration.

In November 2025, Nwoko announced that the bid to create Anioma state has gained significant momentum, with constitutional amendment committees and Tinubu backing the endeavour.

He said 97 senators previously signed a document endorsing the move, describing the level of support as unprecedented.