The purpose of creating more states in Nigeria is to

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the main purpose behind state creation in Nigeria's federal system.

Step 2: Explain the concept Since 1967, when General Yakubu Gowon split the four regions into 12 states, Nigeria has gone on to create more states: 19 in 1976, 21 in 1987, 30 in 1991, and 36 in 1996. The reasons usually given are:

• To bring government and development closer to the grassroots
• To address fears of domination by majority ethnic groups
• To reduce the dominance of the old regions and weaken the pull toward secession
• To promote even development and give minorities a sense of belonging

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Make her truly federal: State creation does not make a country federal. Federalism depends on the constitutional division of powers between levels of government.
• B. Bring peace and justice to all: This is a broad ideal and a possible outcome, but it is not the direct administrative purpose.
• C. Bring the government nearer to the people: This is the standard, direct purpose. Smaller units mean administration, services, and development projects reach people at the local level.
• D. Signify the equality of all Nigerian people: Equality is a principle of the constitution, not the purpose of creating states.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C.

Exam tip: In Government questions on state creation, remember the phrase "bring government closer to the people". It is the classic answer whenever the question asks for the purpose of creating states or local governments. Options with broad words like "peace and justice" or "equality" are usually distractors.