Nigerian House Extends Deadline for State & Local Government Creation Proposals to March 26, 2025

The Nigerian House of Representatives has officially extended the deadline for submitting memoranda on the creation of new states and local governments. This extension, initially set for March 5, 2025, has now been moved to March 26, 2025, following increased public interest and demand.

In February, the House acknowledged receiving 31 proposals for state creation. However, these submissions were introduced as private member bills, meaning they do not represent the official stance of the legislative body. To allow proponents sufficient time to refine their proposals and ensure they align with constitutional requirements, the extension was granted by the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution.

The process of creating new states and local governments in Nigeria follows a structured legal framework. According to the Nigerian Constitution, any proposal for state creation must be endorsed by at least a two-thirds majority of elected representatives from the affected area. This includes members of the Senate, the House of Representatives, the State House of Assembly, and Local Government Councils within the proposed state.

Similarly, local government creation requires approval from the State House of Assembly, followed by a referendum before the proposal can be forwarded to the National Assembly for legislative action. These requirements ensure that such decisions are made with broad consensus and in compliance with legal provisions.

For those submitting proposals, both hard and soft copies are required. Physical copies should be submitted to the Secretariat of the Committee at Room H331, House of Representatives White House, National Assembly Complex, Abuja. Digital copies can be sent via email to info@hccr.gov.ng.

This deadline extension provides an opportunity for individuals and groups advocating for new states or local governments to refine their proposals and meet all necessary constitutional standards. It reflects the House’s commitment to an inclusive and transparent legislative process that accommodates the aspirations of the people.