The Federal Government has directed the Federal Character Commission (FCC) to intensify enforcement of the federal character principle across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure fairness, inclusion, and public trust in governance.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, issued the directive on Tuesday in Abuja during a two-day induction and sensitisation workshop for members of the fifth board of the FCC. Represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Prof. Babatunde Bernard, Akume emphasised that the federal character principle remains a constitutional imperative and a cornerstone of national cohesion.
He urged board members to discharge their duties with objectivity, professionalism, and unwavering loyalty to the constitution, highlighting that public perception of fairness in governance largely depends on their conduct. Akume also encouraged the commission to strengthen data-driven oversight mechanisms, promote transparency, and collaborate with stakeholders in line with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.
In her remarks, FCC Chairman Ayo Omidiran said the workshop marked a shift from appointment to purposeful service, stressing that the fifth board would not operate on a “business as usual” basis. She reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to strict adherence to its enabling laws, ethical conduct, and accountability, enforcing the federal character principle without fear or favour.
Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, described the FCC as occupying a strategic position in Nigeria’s constitutional architecture, urging members to balance inclusion with competence and professionalism, warning against reducing federal character to symbolism or mediocrity.
The workshop, themed “Guide to Implementation and Enforcement of Federal Character Principle,” aims to align the new board’s vision, strengthen cohesion, and equip members with practical tools for effective enforcement of the constitutional mandate.
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