Ned Nwoko, the National Assembly senator for Delta North, has reignited efforts to establish Anioma as a separate state carved out from the current Delta State.
He has introduced a bill proposing amendments to the 1999 Constitution, aiming to formally create Anioma State. This bill is currently under review by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review.
As the National Assembly prepares to deliberate on constitutional amendment proposals when it reconvenes on September 23, 2025, Nwoko emphasized the importance of forming Anioma State within the Southeast geopolitical zone to restore balance in Nigeria’s federal structure.
Nwoko highlighted that the Anioma people, residing across nine Local Government Areas within the Delta North senatorial district, are geographically situated in Delta State but share deep-rooted cultural, linguistic, and historical connections with the Igbo ethnic group. He asserted that Anioma people identify as Igbo through language, customs, lineage, and collective identity.
“Anioma has always been an integral part of the broader Igbo nation; this is our proud heritage and undeniable reality. Our communities in Oshimili, Aniocha, Ika, and Ndokwa maintain longstanding trade relationships, cultural practices, and linguistic similarities with Igbo populations across the Niger River,” Nwoko explained.
“For instance, our market days-Eke, Orie, Afo, and Nkwo-mirror those observed in Igbo land. Our masquerade traditions, such as Mgba and Okanga, closely resemble those found in Onitsha, Nsukka, Awka, and Owerri, underscoring our shared cultural fabric.”
“Linguistically, names like Okonkwo, Nwafor, Nwanze, Odili, and Nkemdilim are common across Igbo communities. Words such as ‘bia’ (come) and ‘nua’ (welcome) further demonstrate the strong linguistic ties between Anioma dialects and the Igbo language, confirming Anioma’s place within the Igbo ethnolinguistic family,” he added.
Nwoko noted that the people of Delta North have historically been referred to as Midwest Igbo, Ika Igbo, or Bendel Igbo. Even official classifications by the Delta State government recognize them as Igbo. While often labeled as Delta Igbo to reflect their location, this does not diminish their Igbo identity.
“Geographically, the map of Igbo land clearly includes Anioma communities such as Asaba, Ibusa, Ogwashi-Uku, Illah, Agbor, Kwale, Aboh, and Ndoni. This geographical evidence aligns with historical and cultural facts, affirming Anioma as part of Igbo territory,” he stated.
He argued that the creation of Anioma State is not merely a regional aspiration but a historic rectification and political imperative, grounded in the principles of national fairness and justice.
Nwoko pointed out the current imbalance in Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, noting that the Southeast has five states, whereas other zones have six or seven. This disparity results in fewer senators, representatives, local governments, and reduced federal allocations for the Southeast.
“Anioma, as an Igbo homeland west of the Niger River, is well-positioned to address this imbalance. Establishing Anioma State will advance Nigeria’s commitment to equity and fairness. Rather than fragmenting the nation, it will fortify national unity,” he emphasized.
“Anioma State will not isolate its people but will integrate the Delta North Senatorial District more fully into the federation, reinforcing its Igbo heritage and identity on Nigeria’s map. Strategically located, with Asaba as its capital, Anioma will serve as a vital link connecting the East and West, as well as the North and South,” Nwoko explained.
“Asaba, already the capital of Delta State, is a gateway city with direct access to the Niger Bridge and the Southeast, making Anioma’s location central and advantageous,” he added.
On the economic front, Nwoko highlighted Anioma’s abundant fertile land, ideal for cultivating rice, cassava, palm products, and supporting fisheries.
“Moreover, Anioma is rich in natural resources, ranking among Nigeria’s key energy hubs. Six of its nine Local Government Areas host major oil and gas operations, especially in Ndokwa, Ika, and Oshimili. Ndokwa alone contains some of the country’s largest gas reserves, including the Okpai Power Plant, which feeds electricity into the national grid,” he noted.
“Our economic contributions to Nigeria are substantial and undeniable. Additionally, Anioma boasts a wealth of human capital-its people are well-educated, enterprising, and globally connected. From academia and business to politics, sports, media, and entertainment, Anioma natives have excelled,” Nwoko said.
“Culturally, Anioma is rich with heritage, historic festivals, and landmarks such as the River Niger, positioning it as a center for cultural diplomacy and tourism,” he added.
He concluded that the establishment of Anioma State would unlock these potentials, attract investments, generate employment, and empower future generations-honoring the past while securing a prosperous future.
Regarding Anioma’s role in fostering national unity, Nwoko described the region as a natural bridge. “Though Igbo by origin, Anioma people have coexisted peacefully with neighboring ethnic groups such as the Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, Edo, and Yoruba. This unique position makes Anioma a natural peacemaker and unifier,” he said.
“Creating Anioma State will also pay tribute to our martyrs, heal historical wounds, preserve our cultural legacy, and safeguard the future of our children. It will symbolize reconciliation, acknowledge Anioma’s sacrifices, and promote greater national balance,” Nwoko asserted.
“This initiative fulfills the vision of pioneers who first advocated for Anioma State in 1954. Anioma people deserve recognition, celebration, and political autonomy. The creation of Anioma State is not a favor to be requested but a right long overdue,” he concluded.
“My advocacy for Anioma is driven not by personal or political motives but by the persistent marginalization and quest for identity that have defined our people since colonial times. It is a steadfast commitment to usher in a new era of Anioma renaissance,” Nwoko affirmed.
