Warri State

Warri State is a proposed state intended to be formed for the Itsekiri people, who inhabit the regions of Warri South, Warri South West, Warri North, and itsekiri parts of Edo State in Nigeria. The movement for the creation of Warri State stems from concerns regarding the marginalization of the Itsekiri people by the Delta State Government and the pursuit of lasting peace in the Niger Delta region.

Background
The Itsekiri people have long voiced grievances regarding their representation and treatment within the Delta State Government. Despite contributing significantly to the Oil and Gas resources of Delta State, Itsekiri communities feel underrepresented and neglected in terms of government representatives, infrastructure, development and resource allocation.

Demand for state creation
The Itsekiri Leaders of Thought also submitted their demands for a Warri State to the Nigerian House of Representatives (Nigeria) in April 2024.

Oil & Gas
The 3 Warri LGAs are the source of about 33% of Nigeria's total oil production, and over 78% of Delta State quantum. Warri, the proposed headquarters of the State, is the mega metropolis of the present Delta State and contributes about 70% of its internally generated revenue. Other assets:
 * i. Chevron Tank Farm at Escravos
 * ii. The EGTL Projects in Escravos (all in Warri South West LGA)
 * iii. The Bonga, Okan and over 20 other oil fields
 * Iv. The Warri Refinery in Warri South LGA
 * V. Chevron & Shell Field Offices in Warri & Escravos
 * vi. Ogidigben proposed Export Processing Gas Zone

Ports
There are three major seaports in Warri, Koko and Escravos, and the last-named loads ocean-liners from its tank farm.

Agriculture
Fishing trawlers are based within the proposed state for fishing, shrimping & crayfishing. These industries hold great promises.

Tourism
The Nanna Living History Museum in Koko - the first of its kind in this part of Africa - and the Royal Cemetery, Ijala in Warri - a potential World Heritage Site - are the must-see areas in the new state.

Itsekiri communities contribute substantially to Nigeria's Oil and Gas sector, accounting for 60% of Delta State's oil and gas production and 33% of the nation's total production. Despite this significant contribution, they feel marginalized and underserved by the Delta State government.

Itsekiri communities contribute substantially to Nigeria's Oil and Gas sector, accounting for 60% of Delta State's oil and gas production and 33% of the nation's total production. Despite this significant contribution, they feel marginalized and underserved by the Delta State government.