Elegbede Abiodun
The proposal, championed by Ned Nwoko, remains a priority for the 10th Senate and continues to receive legislative attention.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced the latest on Anioma State declaration, says Anioma “will be created,” giving support to the long-running agitation to split Delta State.
Akpabio made the assertion on Wednesday while addressing party faithful at the South-South zonal congress of the All Progressives Congress in Asaba, Delta State.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to the proposal, describing it as part of broader efforts to drive development and balance governance structures.
According to him, Asaba will serve as the capital of the proposed Anioma State, while Warri would become the capital of what he described as a “new Delta State” if the plan pulls through.
“Anioma state will be created, with Asaba as its capital. The senate fully supports the initiative spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko,” Akpabio 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 argued that Warri already has the infrastructure to function as a state capital, citing the presence of an airport, seaport, major oil companies, government institutions and a stadium.
He described the agitation for Anioma State as “historically justified,” noting that it is rooted in calls for equity, administrative convenience and balanced development.
The Senate President said the proposal, championed by Ned Nwoko, remains a priority for the 10th Senate and continues to receive legislative attention.
He added that the restructuring would effectively split Delta State into two viable entities, a move he said would deepen decentralisation and unlock socio-economic opportunities.
Akpabio also used the platform to call for unity across the South-South, urging political stakeholders to align with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governors from Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Cross River states, alongside key party leaders, were in attendance at the congress.
Earlier, Nwoko had disclosed that the push for Anioma State had gained significant traction, with widespread legislative backing. He revealed that 97 senators had endorsed the move, describing the level of support as unprecedented.
