A bill proposing the creation of a new Savannah State from the present Borno State has passed its first reading at the plenary session of the 10th House of Representatives.

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to Create a New State in the NortheastRegion Known as Savannah State,” seeks to establish Damboa as the capital of the proposed state.

According to the draft legislation, Savannah State will comprise 24 Local Government Areas (LGAs), drawn and adjusted from existing boundaries to improve administrative efficiency and promote inclusive governance in the Northeastregion.

The bill is co-sponsored by Hon. Muktah Aliyu Betara, Hon. Midala Uman Balami, and Hon. Ahmed Jaha (Babawo), all members representing constituencies in Borno State.

“The creation of Savannah State is aimed at bringing governance closer to the people and ensuring balanced development within the region,” a legislative aide familiar with the proposal said.

The bill will proceed to second reading, where lawmakers will debate its merits before possible referral to the House Committee on Constitutional Review.

If approved by both chambers and endorsed by two-thirds of state assemblies, Savannah State would become Nigeria’s 37th state