As the movement for the creation of Anioma State gathers nationwide momentum, the Nigerian Senate has scheduled a public hearing on the proposed state for July 4th and 5th, 2025, to be held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The hearing follows the successful first and second readings of the Anioma State Creation Bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly.
The Senate has invited traditional rulers, community leaders, intellectuals, youth and women groups, and socio-cultural organizations from across Nigeria to participate and make formal submissions.
Speaking ahead of the hearing, Senator Nwoko called for mass participation, emphasizing the public hearing’s critical role in shaping the bill’s outcome.
“It is a compelling historical movement,” he stated.
“Legendary figures like Sir Dennis Osadebay, Obi Professor Chike Edozien, and Senator Nosike Ikpo initiated this agitation. These heroes, now departed, dreamed of Anioma as a vehicle for genuine progress and cultural identity.”
Senator Nwoko said the proposed state reflects the collective will of the Anioma people, not a personal agenda.
“I stand for history and equity. This is not about personal glory—it is an age-old collective dream. The majority of people in Delta North today support the creation of Anioma State,” he said.
Expressing optimism, the senator highlighted growing political support for the proposal.
“President Bola Tinubu is responsive and very supportive of the Anioma cause. Both the Senate and House of Representatives are receptive. Across the South-South and South-East zones, majority of the states are poised to back Anioma,” he added.
Public enthusiasm continues to rise, buoyed by Senator Nwoko’s reputation for bold and resilient advocacy. He is widely credited with initiating the Paris Club loan refunds that helped pull Nigeria out of recession, founding the first sports university in sub-Saharan Africa, and being the first Black African to embark on an expedition to Antarctica.
With the upcoming public hearing, expectations are high that the dream of Anioma State—decades in the making—may soon become a reality.
