The lawmaker representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko, has stated that President Bola Tinubu is ready to approve the creation of Anions State once all constitutional processes have been completed.

He stated this at the Izu Anioma Towns Union event in Abuja over the weekend, where the maiden Anioma cultural festival was unveiled.

According to him, the bid to create Anioma state has gained significant momentum, with constitutional amendment committees and Tinubu’s support.

He said 97 senators had previously signed a document endorsing the creation of Anioma state, describing the level of support as unprecedented.

Nwoko explained that the bill he introduced seeks to carve Anioma from the nine local government areas in Delta north, including four in Aniocha, Oshimili, two in Ika and three in Ndokwa.

He added that some neighbouring communities, including Igbanke, have also indicated interest in joining the proposed state.

“Only one state will be created in Nigeria, and that one state will be Anioma,” he said.

He stated that the Senate and House of Representatives’ committees on constitutional amendment, with representation from all states, have agreed that the South-East should be granted a sixth state to achieve regional balance.

“We have done our homework. A lot of lobbying, contacts, and consultations are ongoing. Nothing is being left undone,” he said.

Nwoko said leaders from the south-east, traditional rulers and Anioma representatives will meet in Awka, Anambra state, next weekend to adopt Anioma as the region’s official candidate for the new state.

He listed the next steps to include submitting documentation to the presidency, concurrence by state assemblies and governors, and a national referendum.

Upon completion, he said Tinubu would sign the state-creation instrument in what he called a “momentous” ceremony.

Nwoko urged Anioma people to remain united, saying the goal is near.

“I did not start this struggle, but I will finish it. Anioma state will be the beginning of a new era,” he said.