Geopolitical zones of Nigeria

The six geopolitical zones of Nigeria

A geopolitical zone is an administrative division of Nigeria. The six zones were created during the regime of president General Sani Abacha. Nigerian economic, political, and educational resources are often shared across the zones.^{[1][2][3][4][5][6]: 98}

Reason for the Zones[]

The six zones were not entirely carved out based on geographic location, but rather states with similar ethnic groups, and/or common political history were classified in the same zone.^{[citation needed]} Nigeria is made up of approximately 400 ethnic groups and 450 languages. There was a need for the government to merge similar groups for effective allocation of resources.

Agitations for Constitutional Recognition[]

Many groups and individuals in Nigeria including the Afenifere Renewal Movement through its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, Ohaneze Ndigbo, its late Secretary General, Chief Ralph Uwechue and Ijaw National Congress through its National President, Mr. Joshua Benameisigha have canvassed that the current six zonal divisions be recognized in Nigeria's constitution and be strengthened to function as federating units in the new structure for Nigeria.^[7]

According to Chief Nengi James, a Niger Delta activist, "for all sections of the country to become one entity, the geopolitical zones must be recognized in the constitution." These groups are pushing for devolution of powers so that the geopolitical zones become autonomous and manage the resources within their territories in a Federal Nigeria.^[7]

The six geopolitical zones in Nigeria and the states that make up each of the geopolitical zones.[]

References[]