…urges united, evidence-based consensus on viable option
The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has commended the Joint Committee of the National Assembly on Constitutional Review and State Creation for its historic decision approving the creation of an additional state for the South-East geopolitical zone.
FOSAD stated this bold and corrective decision represents a major step toward addressing the long-standing structural imbalance in Nigeria’s federal system, adding, “The South-East remains the only geopolitical zone with five states, compared to six in most other regions and seven in the North-West. This imbalance has, for decades, affected the region’s representation in the National Assembly, limited its access to federal resources, and constrained its share of development projects.”
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by FOSAD President, Dr. Stephen Nwala and
Secretary-General, Dr. Uzor Ngoladi.
The statement read, “The approval by the National Assembly is not merely a regional achievement. It is a national affirmation of fairness, inclusion, and justice. The creation of a sixth state will strengthen Nigeria’s unity and renew the faith of citizens in the equity of our federation.
“FOSAD therefore calls on all South-East stakeholders, including governors, legislators, traditional rulers, civic organizations, professionals, and socio-cultural associations, to seize this historic opportunity to build a united front in identifying a single, economically viable and socially cohesive proposal for the sixth state.
“This process must be guided by objective and data-driven criteria such as population strength, internally generated revenue potential, land mass, infrastructure base, cultural cohesion, and long-term sustainability. This is not a moment for rivalry or regional politics but a moment for reflection and cooperation. The South-East must present one well-researched and widely supported proposal that aligns with national development goals.
“To achieve this, FOSAD will work with universities, professional bodies, and development experts to produce a **Technical Evaluation Framework** that can assess the economic and demographic viability of proposed states. The Forum also encourages state governments and civil society organizations to convene inclusive consultations across all five South-East states to reach broad-based consensus.
“While acknowledging that several proposals have emerged over the years, including Aba, Adada, Etiti, Orlu, Anioma, Njaba, and Orashi, FOSAD makes it clear that it has no preferred choice. The Forum is committed only to supporting whichever option emerges through a transparent, evidence-based, and collectively endorsed process.
“The creation of a sixth state will not only enhance political equity but also expand opportunities for job creation, local governance, and fairer federal representation in ministries, departments, and agencies. A balanced federation is a more stable federation. The sixth state for the South-East is not a privilege; it is a constitutional correction that aligns with Nigeria’s founding principles of equality and fairness.
“FOSAD expresses deep appreciation to the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly the Joint Committee on Constitutional Review and State Creation, for their courage and responsiveness. The Forum also urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration to give expeditious consideration to the constitutional amendment process once it reaches the executive stage.
“FOSAD reaffirms its commitment to supporting all lawful, inclusive, and research-based efforts that advance justice, unity, and development in the South-East and Nigeria as a whole. History beckons on the South-East to act wisely and in unity. The creation of a sixth state must symbolize not just inclusion but preparedness—proof that we can turn fairness into progress and equity into prosperity.”
