Uzoamaka Onwu
As discussions about the creation of new states in Nigeria persist, security expert Mr. Jackson Lekan-Ojo emphasizes the need to prioritize strengthening the nation’s economy, addressing security challenges, and enhancing other critical sectors instead of pursuing state creation initiatives.
In a recent press briefing in Port Harcourt, Mr. Lekan-Ojo highlighted that many existing states struggle with economic viability, making the prospect of establishing additional states unfeasible at this time.
To address the concerns of those advocating for new states, Mr. Lekan-Ojo suggests that their elected representatives at the national level should actively lobby for and secure essential projects to foster development in their respective regions.
While acknowledging the potential financial strain that new states could impose on the nation, Mr. Lekan-Ojo concedes that, in the interest of equity and fairness, the Southeast region merits consideration for an additional state to mitigate feelings of marginalization.
This perspective aligns with ongoing debates about the creation of new states in Nigeria, as highlighted in recent discussions among lawmakers.
