Yobe: Potiskum Stakeholders Push for Division into East, West LGAs
From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Stakeholders from Potiskum Local Government, the headquarters of Yobe South Senatorial District, have formally submitted a proposal to the National Assembly seeking the division of the council into two separate local governments—Potiskum East and Potiskum West.
The delegation, led by Hon. Ali Muhammed Guza, the Wazirin Potiskum, was received by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, in Abuja. Among the delegation were prominent figures including the former Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly and former House of Representatives member, Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Umar Potiskum, who also serves as Secretary of the Committee.
Presenting their memorandum, the stakeholders explained that the proposed division was necessary to ensure administrative efficiency, enhance governance, and bring development closer to the people of Potiskum.
With an estimated population of one million as of 2024, Potiskum remains the largest local government area in Nigeria. It serves as the commercial nerve centre of Yobe South and hosts the biggest cattle market in West Africa—the second largest in the world—underscoring its economic importance. Potiskum is also a major transportation hub in northern Nigeria, strategically linking the Northeast to other regions.
The delegation stressed that splitting Potiskum into two LGAs would strengthen representation, improve service delivery, and accelerate development across communities within the area.
Responding, Senator Barau Jibrin assured the stakeholders that their request would be given due legislative consideration once the National Assembly resumes from its annual recess. He commended their initiative and pledged to review the proposal alongside similar requests.
Hon. Guza expressed optimism that the National Assembly would look favorably on their demand, emphasizing that the division would pave the way for more targeted development initiatives.
Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Umar Potiskum further noted that the move was driven by a genuine desire to improve governance and ensure that resources and opportunities reach communities more effectively.
Residents of Potiskum and stakeholders across Yobe South are now closely following developments, hopeful that the creation of Potiskum East and West will usher in improved governance, deeper political representation, and accelerated socio-economic progress.
