– “AN ADDITIONAL STATE WILL BENEFIT THE REGION,” SAYS HON. DAVID NWAENYI
MotionNG Multimedia Services 04/03/2025
It is evident that the push for the creation of an additional state for the South East region – proposed to be known as Anim State has gained significant momentum as Senator Osita Izunaso, the sponsor of the Bill and the distinguished senator representing Imo West Senatorial District, continues to champion the legislative process for its establishment.
This historic quest has now received overwhelming support both from the Southeast and stakeholders from other regions, who see it as a bold step toward equity, development, and balanced representation within Nigeria’s federal structure.
Recall that one week ago, Senator Izunaso led a powerful delegation to meet the deputy Senate president (Sen. Barau Jibrin) who doubles as the chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution ammendment. And the visit was fruitfuly encouraging as Sen. Barau Jibrin promised to use all instrument withing his office to ensure the creation of Anim State – which he described as one that will “promote national unity”. 
Speaking on the matter after the meeting with the Deputy Senate President, Hon. David Nwaenyi (a member of the team) emphasized that the creation of Anim State is not just a political aspiration but a necessity for regional growth. According to him, “The Southeast remains the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria with just five states, while others have at least six. This imbalance affects federal resource allocation, political representation, and economic opportunities. Senator Izunaso’s push for Anim State is a fight for fairness, and we stand solidly behind him.”
“For decades, the Southeast has clamored for an additional state to correct the structural disparity in Nigeria’s political configuration. With fewer states and local government areas (LGAs), the region has received far less federal allocation than she ought to have received, limiting infrastructural development and social programs in the region,” he added.
The traditional rulers, political and religious leaders, youth and women organizations, business communities, and civil society groups from the Southeast and neighbouring regions throwing in their weight behind Senator Osita Izunaso’s Bill, acknowledging that it aligns with the interests of Ndigbo and the long-term prosperity of the region.
Prominent voices, including two states governors, National and states Assembly members, and socio-political organizations like Ohanaeze Ndigbo, 
OPOCA, Grow Orlu Project, have publicly endorsed the proposal. Distinguished individuals like Dr. ABC Orjiako, HRM, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Chief Rex Anunobi (OPOCA Supreme Leader), Chief Cosmas Maduba (Ọdebube Isu), Chief Ethelbert Ọkwaranyịa, and many others have called for unity among Igbo leaders to ensure the successful passage of Anim State Creation Bill.
With the way Sen. Osita Izunaso is pursuing the agenda in the Senate, the Anim State Creation Bill will soon move to public hearings and constitutional review stages. This will involve stakeholder engagements, consultations with state assemblies, and lobbying for nationwide support.
Hon. Dave Nwaenyi urged all sons and daughters of the Southeast to remain actively involved, stating, “Now is the time for our people to unite, engage their representatives, and push this bill to reality. Irrespective of the challenges section 8 of the 1999 Constitution (as altered) may pose regarding the creation of state, Anim State is possible, and with strong political will, we will achieve it.” https://youtu.be/UyTMOze3Vp0?si=6K7VHGyYAimt1JK1
The creation of Anim State is a just cause, not just for the Southeast but for a more balanced, equitable and just Nigeria. With Senator Osita Izunaso leading the charge and key Southeast stakeholders lending their support at the appropriate time, the dream of a sixth state in the Southeast is closer than ever. It is a call for justice, inclusion, and sustainable development, and the time to act is now.
THE END!
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