Anioma State: Momentum Builds as Senate Sets July Public Hearing

The call for the creation of Anioma State has entered a critical phase, as the Nigerian Senate has officially scheduled a public hearing on the proposal for July 4th and 5th, 2025. The hearing will take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and is expected to draw massive participation from stakeholders across Delta North and beyond.

This development follows the successful first and second readings of the bill for Anioma State, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly. With this public hearing, the campaign is moving beyond legislative chambers and into the court of public opinion, where voices from all walks of life will weigh in.

A Platform for All Voices

Expected at the hearing are traditional rulers, community leaders, academics, youth groups, women's associations, and various cultural organizations. Each group is expected to present arguments, hopes, and concerns about the proposed state—an opportunity to shape the future of Delta North and possibly redraw the map of Nigeria.

Senator Ned Nwoko, the driving force behind the Anioma State campaign, sees the hearing as a decisive moment. In a recent interview, he described the push for statehood as a historic mission rooted in justice and long-standing aspirations.

A Legacy of Advocacy

“This is not about me,” Nwoko said. “It’s about a dream that great men like Sir Dennis Osadebay, Obi Professor Chike Edozien, and Senator Nosike Ikpo envisioned decades ago. They’re no longer with us, but their passion for Anioma lives on.”

Nwoko emphasized that the movement is about cultural identity and balanced development. “Most people in Delta North support Anioma State because they believe in fairness and the right to self-definition,” he said. “This is about correcting historical imbalances. It’s time for Anioma to stand on its own.”

He expressed optimism that the state would be created under the current administration, praising President Bola Tinubu’s supportive stance and the positive signals from the Senate and House of Representatives.

“The goodwill is real,” he added. “There’s growing support from states across the South-South and South-East. Nigeria is ready for Anioma.”

Strong Public Backing

Senator Nwoko’s reputation as a determined and visionary leader has strengthened public confidence in the movement. From leading the campaign that secured Nigeria’s Paris Club debt refund—credited with helping pull the country out of recession—to founding the first sports university in sub-Saharan Africa, Nwoko has a history of achieving what many deem impossible.

His ambition, once seen as bold, now looks timely.

“Anioma Is a Done Deal” – APC Chieftain

Adding more firepower to the campaign, a top chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Mr. Ejiofor, has declared the creation of Anioma State a “done deal.” In an exclusive interview, he hailed Nwoko as a standout figure in Nigerian politics, applauding his courage and focus.

“This has been a long time coming,” Ejiofor said. “Senator Nwoko has stepped in with boldness and clarity. This is no longer a dream; it’s a reality in motion.”

He stressed that Anioma State represents a just cause for the Igbo-speaking communities of Delta North, many of whom have long felt marginalized.

“The momentum is unprecedented. This time, the stars are aligned,” he said. “Nwoko is not just a senator—he’s a catalyst for change. He understands what it means to fight for something greater than personal ambition.”

The Road Ahead

With the public hearing set and political support growing, the Anioma State campaign appears to be entering its most decisive chapter yet. What was once an idea carried by a few is now a national conversation. And if the trend continues, Anioma could become Nigeria’s next state—born from decades of advocacy, a thirst for justice, and the resilient spirit of its people.

As July approaches, the spotlight will shine brightly on Uyo, where voices will rise not just for Anioma, but for a broader call to fairness and representation in Nigeria’s federation.