The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill proposing the creation of a new state in Nigeria’s South-West region.
The bill seeks to amend the Constitution to establish Ibadan State, with Ibadan as its capital.
If approved, this would mark the first creation of a new state since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
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The last time new states were created was in 1996, under the military regime of General Sani Abacha, which brought the total number of states to 36.
Since then, efforts to create additional states have repeatedly failed due to the stringent constitutional amendment process.
During Thursday’s plenary, the bill’s sponsor, Abass Adigun (PDP, Oyo), argued that Ibadan deserves statehood, given its status as West Africa’s largest city and the former capital of the defunct Western Region. He said the proposal is driven by the need for equity, development, and administrative efficiency.
Adigun pointed out that other former regional capitals, such as Enugu and Kaduna, have become states, while Ibadan—despite its population, size, and economic influence—has not. According to him, creating Ibadan State would advance “true federalism” and fulfil a long-standing aspiration of its people.
He also noted that Ibadan has the infrastructure and human resources to function effectively as a state, stating that “one local government in Ibadan is bigger than three local governments in Bayelsa State.”
This remark sparked a swift reaction from Obuku Ofurji (PDP, Bayelsa), who called the comparison “irrelevant and disrespectful.” Adigun later apologised, clarifying that his statement was based on data and not meant to offend.
The bill joins a growing list of state creation proposals that have surfaced in the National Assembly over the years—including calls for the creation of Anioma, Orlu, Ogoja, Gurara, and Katagum states. None have yet succeeded due to the demanding constitutional requirements, including endorsement by two-thirds of state assemblies.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, referred the bill to the Committee on Constitutional Review for further consideration.
The renewed push for Ibadan State comes amid increasing regional demands for decentralisation and resource-based development.
Just last month, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to approve the creation of Ibadan State before 2027, describing it as “a long-deferred dream.”
If enacted, Ibadan State would become Nigeria’s 37th state and the sixth in the South-West region.
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