Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Movement of the Creation of Kainji State, Ambassador Ahmed Musa Ibeto
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Movement of the Creation of Kainji State, Ambassador Ahmed Musa Ibeto, has stated that the creation of the proposed state from the existing Niger and Kebbi States will significantly address the ongoing insecurity in the regions.
Speaking at the zonal public hearing for the North Central zone constitutional review organized by the Senate, Ambassador Ibeto explained that the demand for Kainji State is backed by three emirates: Kontagora and Borgu from Niger State, and Zuru Emirate from Kebbi State.
He noted that the vast land area of the current states has made governance challenging, contributing to the escalating security issues.
Ambassador Ibeto emphasized that dividing the region into smaller units through the creation of Kainji State would ensure more effective governance and enhanced security.
According to him, the region is well-equipped to become a state, highlighting that the land mass of Niger State alone is larger than several regions and over 10 states combined. “It could take two days to journey from one part of the state to the other by road,” he added.
“Over time, due to the implementation of colonial administrative changes from 1902 to 1994, our places were divided. Some were placed in different provinces, and when states were created in 1976, the same division occurred.”
“Given the historical bonds of affinity, we believe that these regions should come together to demand the creation of a new state. Our brothers and sisters are supporting this cause because, as it stands, Niger State is the largest state in Nigeria by landmass—it covers 10% of the country’s total area.”
“If justice, equity, and fairness are to prevail, there is a need for Niger State to be split into additional states.”
“With a population of 3.4 million people, our demand is justified. By current standards, this population surpasses that of more than 10 states in Nigeria. In terms of land area, Niger State covers 47,395 square kilometers.”
“For comparison, one local government area in Niger is larger than the entire Southeast region of Nigeria. We believe this is a justifiable demand, and we trust the Senate will recommend the creation of a new state in line with these considerations.”
“And with the ongoing security issue in Niger State, we believe that breaking the state into smaller units will help address the insecurity problem. That is an absolute fact, and that’s precisely why we are advocating for state creation.”
“In Niger State, you can travel for a full day or even two before reaching the farthest points. For example, traveling from Madala, which is on the edge of Suleja, to Babana, a border town with the Republic of Benin, takes two days.”
“This vast landmass means there are many ungoverned spaces, which contribute to the insecurity. By creating a new state, we believe these areas will become more accessible and controlled. It will prevent bandits from having free rein in regions that are currently underserved in terms of governance.”
“So, we’re confident that creating new states will improve security, among other benefits,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to Professor Jerry Gana, who, while advocating for the creation of Edu State from Niger, recognized the validity of the Kainji State creation. “He (Gana) said it is valid.”
