State Creation in Nigeria: A Lasting Legacy of Military Rule

Introduction

One of the enduring legacies of military rule in Nigeria is the creation of states. This process began in 1967 when Yakubu Gowon, the then-military Head of State, replaced the existing regional arrangement with twelve states. Since then, almost every subsequent military regime has followed suit, with the last being General Sani Abacha's creation of six additional states in 1996. In this episode, we'll delve into the history of state creation in Nigeria from 1967 to 1996.

The Regional Era (1960-1966)

Prior to 1967, Nigeria was divided into three regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern. In 1963, the Mid-Western Region was carved out of the Western Region, bringing the total to four. Each region had a regional government, with a Premier as head, while Alhaji Tafawa Balewa served as Prime Minister and Nnamdi Azikiwe as ceremonial President.

Gowon's State Creation (1967)

Following Aguiyi Ironsi's assassination in July 1966, Yakubu Gowon became Nigeria's new military ruler. On May 5, 1967, he dissolved the four regions and created twelve states. The Northern Region was split into six states: North-Western, North-Eastern, Kano, North Central, Benue-Plateau, and Kwara. The Western Region became two states: Western and Lagos. The Mid-Western Region remained unchanged, while the Eastern Region was divided into East Central, Rivers, and South-Eastern states.

Subsequent State Creations

- In 1976, Murtala Mohammed created seven additional states: Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Imo, Niger, Ogun, and Ondo, bringing the total to nineteen.

- In 1987, Ibrahim Babangida created two states: Akwa Ibom and Katsina.

- In 1991, Babangida created nine more states: Abia, Enugu, Delta, Jigawa, Kebbi, Osun, Kogi, Taraba, and Yobe.

- In 1996, Sani Abacha created six final states: Ebonyi, Bayelsa, Nasarawa, Gombe, Ekiti, and Zamfara.

Conclusion

The creation of states in Nigeria has had a lasting impact on the country's political landscape. From twelve states in 1967 to thirty-six in 1996, this process has shaped Nigeria's development and identity. Understanding this history is crucial for building a better future for the nation. 

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