The Nigerian Senate has scheduled a public hearing on the proposed creation of Anioma State for July 4–5, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The hearing is based on a bill sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, which has already passed its first and second readings in the Senate.
Senator Nwoko made the announcement during a courtesy visit to the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, where he briefed the monarch on key components of the statehood proposal. He revealed that Asaba is expected to serve as the capital of the proposed state.
The Senator emphasized the importance of inclusive participation, calling on stakeholders—including traditional rulers, intellectuals, community leaders, youth and women groups, as well as socio-cultural organizations—to actively engage in the upcoming public hearing.
Describing the push for Anioma State as a historic movement, Senator Nwoko stated that the initiative aims to bring progress, cultural identity, and political representation to the Anioma people.
In response, the Asagba of Asaba commended Senator Nwoko’s proactive legislative work, particularly his bills in the Senate, and expressed appreciation for his initiative to upgrade the Federal Technical College, Asaba, into a full-fledged university.
The monarch also noted that Asaba’s involvement in the Anioma State project must include contributions from people across the Niger River, and stressed that the effort should be rooted within the South-South geopolitical zone.
Offering the support of the Asaba community, HRM Azinge encouraged the Senator to consult documents from the 2014 National Conference—archived in his Abuja residence—as a reference for the state creation proposal. He concluded by wishing Senator Nwoko success in his efforts.
