Breaking: House Of Reps Extends Deadline For State, LG Creation Requests To March 26

Breaking: House Of Reps Extends Deadline For State, LG Creation Requests To March 26

The House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has extended the deadline for submitting memoranda on the creation of new states and local governments. Initially set for March 5, 2025, the new deadline is now March 26, 2025, following increased public demand.

The announcement was made on Monday by Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., Spokesman for the House of Representatives.

Earlier, on February 6, 2025, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu had presented a list of 31 proposed new states during a plenary session in Abuja. The proposal aims to enhance representation, promote economic viability, and ensure regional balance in governance.

The Committee emphasized that the extension provides additional time for stakeholders whose submissions previously failed to meet constitutional requirements to refine and resubmit their proposals in line with Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended).

According to the Constitution:

• State creation proposals must be supported by a two-thirds majority of elected representatives from the affected areas in:
  • The Nigerian Senate
  • The House of Representatives
  • The State House of Assembly
  • The Local Government Councils of the concerned region
• Local government creation requires approval from the State House of Assembly and the outcome of a referendum before submission to the National Assembly for legislative consideration.

All proposals must be submitted in both hard and soft copies:

• Hard copies (3 copies): Committee Secretariat, Room H331, House of Representatives White House, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
• Soft copies: Email to info@hccr.gov.ng
• Deadline: March 26, 2025
• Inquiries: Committee Clerk – 08069232381

Commenting on the extension, Deputy Speaker Kalu assured the public that the House is committed to transparency and adherence to constitutional guidelines.

“This decision is a direct response to appeals from Nigerians seeking reconsideration of their proposals. The Committee will ensure that all submissions are fairly evaluated and meet constitutional requirements,” he stated.

The creation of new states remains a highly debated issue in Nigeria. While supporters argue it will improve governance, accelerate development, and bring government closer to the people, critics warn it could increase administrative costs and strain federal resources.

If approved, the restructuring would mark one of the biggest political changes since 1996, when Nigeria increased its states from 30 to 36. The proposals are expected to generate heated debates both in the National Assembly and among the public as the process moves forward.

Meanwhile, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr. clarified that the proposed state creations were submitted as private member bills and do not reflect the official position of the House of Representatives. He reaffirmed that the Committee will strictly follow constitutional provisions to ensure an inclusive and transparent review process.