The National Assembly has resumed constitutional amendment talks that could reshape Nigeria’s political structure with the creation of 55 new states and 278 local governments.
Speaking at a joint Senate and House retreat in Lagos, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who chairs the Constitution Review Committee, said the review reflects extensive consultations across the country.
The proposals form part of 69 bills under review, including boundary adjustments and governance reforms. Lawmakers have pledged to forward the first set of approved amendments to state assemblies before year-end.
Barau emphasized patriotism over regional interests, warning against divisive debates. “We sit as one committee guided by Nigeria’s unity,” he said.
Political analysts, however, caution that the growing demand for new states may strain resources and reignite old rivalries.
Previous amendment efforts faltered over similar issues of devolution, autonomy, and state creation—raising doubts about the current process’s chances of success.
