As agitation for the creation of Anioma state gathers momentum, the Nigerian Senate has scheduled public hearing on the proposed state for 4th and 5th July 2025 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.
The public hearing is coming on the heels of the first and second reading of the bill on Anioma state creation proposed by Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly.
Stakeholders from all quarters, including traditional rulers, opinion leaders, intelligentsia, youths and women groups, and socio-cultural organisations, are expected to make submissions at the public hearing.
In an interview, the prime mover of the Anioma state creation bill, Senator Ned Nwoko, described the public hearing as all-important and urged mass participation.
The federal lawmaker said the state creation quest gratified the wishes of past and present generations of Anioma people.
According to Senator Nwoko, it is a compelling historical movement.
“Legendary figures like Sir. Dennis Osadede, Obi Professor Chike Edozien and Senator Nosike Ikpo initiated the agitation.These heroes, all departed, desired Anioma for genuine progress and cultural identity.
“Majority of the people in Delta North today want Anioma state. I stand for history and equity. It is not pursuit of personal glory but age old collective dream.
“I am confident of the fruition of Anioma state. President Bola Tinubu is responsive and very supportive of the Anioma cause.
“The Senate and House of Representatives are receptive. Majority of the states in Nigeria are poised to back Anioma across South South and South East zones, the goodwill of the people are encouraging”
Reports indicate that public expectations are upbeat about Anioma state against the background of Senator Nwoko’s acknowledged resilient and audacious spirit.
He is credited as the progenitor of Paris club’s loan refunds, which ended Nigeria’s recession, the first black African to embark on an expedition to Antarctica, South Pole and the founder of the first sports university in sub-Saharan Africa.
