Athena Perspectives-Fresh and Deep Dimension to the News . Vol. 1 Issue 4 Edition 25 June – 2 July 2024
On Thursday, June 6, 2024, the House of Representatives passed a bill for first reading for the creation of a new state. The bill seeks to create Orlu State in the South-East geo-political zone of the country and will alter the 1999 Constitution (as amended), increasing the number of states in the federation from 36 to 37[1].
The last time new states were created in Nigeria was on October 1, 1996, under General Sani Abacha’s military regime when six new states- Bayelsa State, Ebonyi State, Ekiti State, Gombe State, Nasarawa State, Zamfara State were established, bringing the number of states from 30 to 36. In the current geopolitical configuration, the North-West comprises seven states while the North-East, North-Central, South-South and South-West consist of six states each. The South-East, however, remains the region with the fewest states, possessing only five[2].
Previous Attempts at Creating New States in the Southeast
Since the beginning Nigeria’s Fourth Republic in 1999, there have been various efforts to address the regional imbalance by creating new states, particularly in the Southeast. These attempts reflect ongoing challenges in balancing regional aspirations with national unity.
In 2005, during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s National Political Reform Conference, Southeast delegates pushing for a new state, but despite strong recommendations, no new states were created as the conference’s resolutions were not implemented[3]. Similarly, President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2014 National Conference proposed creating additional states, including three in the Southeast, but the recommendations were not adopted into law before the administration ended[4].
Constitutional amendments attempt by the National Assembly in 2010 also aimed to create new states in the Southeast but failed to pass the rigorous amendment process[5]. During the 2016-2017 constitutional review led by Senate President Bukola Saraki and Speaker Yakubu Dogara, state creation proposals were revisited but failed due to high consensus requirements and political complexities[6].
Despite these failed attempts, there has been continuous lobbying and advocacy by groups and political leaders in the Southeast have kept state creation on the national agenda. The constitutional requirement for state creation remains a significant hurdle.
Constitutional Provisions and Challenges
The process for creating a new state in Nigeria, as outlined by the Section 8 and 9 of the Nigerian Constitution, involves several critical steps. The first is to initiate a petition supported by at least two-thirds of the representatives (in the House of Assembly) and two-thirds of the local government councils in the area seeking the new state. The petition is submitted to the National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives) [7].
Subsequently, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducts a referendum in the affected areas. At least two-thirds of voters must approve. If the referendum is successful, the National Assembly must pass a constitutional amendment with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses. The amendment must be approved by at least two-thirds of the state Houses of Assembly across the country. Lastly, the President signs the amendment into law, officially creating the new state.
Previous attempts often failed to follow these steps thoroughly, particularly the requirement for local petitions and approvals. Most efforts began at the National Assembly without the necessary groundwork, leading to misdirected and ultimately unsuccessful initiatives.
Recommendations
To avoid futile attempts, proponents of new state creation should rigorously adhere to the constitutional provisions. Building broad political consensus and securing necessary local and legislative support are crucial for successful state creation. Ensuring that all procedural requirements are met will increase the chances of addressing regional imbalances and achieving equitable development across Nigeria.
Issues in the News
Top four stories on our thematic areas in Nigeria
EU commits €150b investment in African trade, transport infrastructure – Guardian Nigeria
The European Union (EU) plans to invest €150 billion in African transport infrastructure to enhance intra-African trade under the Global Gateway initiative. This investment aims to improve connectivity across the continent, facilitating smoother trade and economic growth. Key projects will focus on roads, railways, and ports, designed to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This initiative is part of the EU’s broader strategy to strengthen partnerships and foster sustainable development in Africa.
For more details: https://punchng.com/eu-plans-e150bn-transport-investment-to-boost-intra-african-trade/
NELFUND postpones student loan application for state-owned institutions
The Nigeria Education Loan Fund (Nelfund) has postponed the student loan application process for students attending state-owned institutions. Initially scheduled to start on June 25, 2024, the delay is due to administrative issues that need resolution. Students are advised to stay informed through official channels for updates on the new application timeline. This loan program aims to support Nigerian students in need of financial assistance for their education.
For more details: https://punchng.com/breaking-nelfund-postpones-student-loan-application-for-state-owned-institutions/
Security Forces Arrest Woman Transporting Ammunition To Terrorists In Katsina
Nigerian security forces have arrested a woman in Katsina State transporting ammunition intended for terrorists. The arrest occurred at a checkpoint where she was found with a significant quantity of ammunition concealed in her vehicle. This operation is part of broader efforts to curb the activities of terrorist groups in the region. Authorities emphasize their commitment to dismantling supply networks that support insurgents and ensuring the security of the state.
For more details: https://saharareporters.com/2024/06/24/nigerian-security-forces-arrest-woman-transporting-ammunition-terrorists-katsina
JAMB Fixes Date to Decide 2024 Admissions Cut-Off Marks
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) will announce the cut-off marks for the 2024/2025 academic admissions on July 18, 2024. This decision, crucial for university, polytechnic, and college admissions in Nigeria, will be made during a policy meeting with stakeholders in Abuja. The cut-off marks set minimum scores required for candidates to gain entry into tertiary institutions across the country. Students and institutions eagerly await this announcement to guide their admission processes for the upcoming academic session.
For more details: https://businessday.ng/education/article/jamb-to-announce-cut-off-marks-for-2024-2025-admissions-july-18/?amp
Regional Updates
Top stories from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger (BCCN)…
Cameroonians React to National ID Cost Increase Amid Modernization Efforts
Cameroonians have expressed concerns over the government’s recent decision to increase the cost of obtaining a national identity card, which has risen from 2,800 FCFA to 6,000 FCFA. The hike, aimed at funding efforts to modernize the ID system, has sparked debate among citizens, with many arguing that the higher fees place an additional financial burden on the populace. The government justifies the increase as necessary for enhancing the efficiency and security of the national ID system, promising improved services and faster issuance times.[8]
Niger Officials Confirm Oil Pipeline Sabotaged by Rebels
In Niger, anti-junta rebels have sabotaged a significant oil pipeline. This attack disrupts the pipeline that transports oil from the Agadem oilfields in Niger to the port of Sèmè in Benin. Officials confirmed that the sabotage has severely impacted the country’s oil exports and the broader economic stability of the region. The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Niger, as rebel groups continue to pose threats to critical infrastructure. Efforts are underway to repair the damage and restore normal operations.[9]
Jihadists flooding Nigeria through Benin Republic — Report
A recent report highlights growing concerns over jihadists entering Nigeria through the porous borders with Benin Republic, contributing to increased insecurity in the country. Security agencies have observed a surge in the movement of these militants, raising alarms about potential escalations in violence and terrorist activities. Experts and officials are urging the Nigerian government to enhance border controls and collaborate more closely with neighboring countries to address this threat. Strengthening security measures at these entry points is seen as crucial for preventing further infiltration and ensuring national stability.[10]
Chad eliminates human African trypanosomiasis as a public health problem
Chad has successfully eliminated Human African Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) as a public health concern, achieving this milestone recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). This accomplishment marks significant progress in Chad’s healthcare efforts, demonstrating effective disease control strategies and collaborative partnerships. The WHO commends Chad’s commitment to improving health outcomes and urges sustained vigilance to prevent the re-emergence of the disease.[11]
[1] https://punchng.com/bill-for-creation-of-new-state-for-south-east-scales-first-reading/
[2] https://www.ecsdev.org/images/V2N3/adeyemi%20155-174.pdf
[3][3] https://www.thecable.ng/let-the-conference-be-now/
[4] https://www.premiumtimesng.com/national-conference/key-national-conference-recommendations-need-know/
[5] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2010/01/2010-electoral-reforms-constitutional-review-politics-top-reps-agenda/
[6] https://www.thecable.ng/this-is-no-jamboree-saraki-tellls-constitution-review-commitee/
[7] https://nigerian-constitution.com/chapter-1-part-2-section-8-new-states-and-boundary-adjustment/
[8] https://www.cameroon-concord.com/business/cameroonians-react-to-national-id-cost-increase-amid-modernization-efforts#google_vignette
[9] https://newscentral.africa/niger-officials-confirm-oil-pipeline-sabotaged-by-rebels/
[10]https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/06/insecurity-jihadists-flooding-nigeria-through-benin-republic-report/
[11] https://www.who.int/philippines/news/detail-global/20-06-2024-chad-eliminates-human-african-trypanosomiasis-as-a-public-health-problem