March 26, (THEWILL) — Warri and Asaba are poised for significant administrative transformation as the proposed creation of Anioma State gains strong backing from the Senate, with clear indications that both cities will assume new capital roles under the emerging structure.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to the initiative on Wednesday during the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South zonal Congress in Asaba.
He disclosed that the administration of Bola Tinubu is also aligned with the proposal, signaling a coordinated push at both legislative and executive levels.
Providing details of the proposed arrangement, Akpabio said Asaba would serve as the capital of the envisioned Anioma State, while Warri would become the capital of a restructured Delta State.
“Anioma State will be created, with Asaba as its capital. The Senate fully supports the initiative spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko. With Asaba as Anioma State capital, Warri will be the capital of the new Delta,” he said.
He added that Warri already boasts key infrastructure, including an airport, seaport, government institutions, major oil company presence, and a stadium—making it well-suited for its anticipated role.
The Senate President described the agitation for Anioma State as historically justified, noting that it reflects a long-standing aspiration anchored on equity, balanced development, and improved governance.
He added that the proposal, championed by Ned Nwoko, has continued to receive priority attention in the 10th Senate.
According to Akpabio, the creation of Anioma State would promote decentralisation, enhance administrative efficiency, and unlock socio-economic opportunities for communities in the region.
He expressed optimism that the development would usher in a new era of shared prosperity across both the proposed Anioma State and the reconfigured Delta State.
“This step will usher in a new era of development and shared prosperity for all constituent communities,” he said
The congress was attended by governors of Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River states, alongside party leaders and stakeholders from across the South-South, reflecting broad-based political support for the proposal.
Akpabio also called for unity among the people of the region, stressing that collaboration remains essential to achieving sustainable development and maximising the benefits of the proposed restructuring.
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