How many states were created in Nigeria in 1967?

In 1967, Nigeria created twelve (12) states. Prior to this time, Nigeria had only four regions (Northern, Eastern, Western, and Midwestern) but due to the need for administrative convenience and to address some political issues, the country was divided into twelve states. These states were made up of different regions and ethnic groups with each state having its own capital and governance structure. This move was aimed at decentralizing power and bringing the government closer to the people. The twelve states created in 1967 were later increased to nineteen in 1976 and then to twenty-one in 1987.