FG moves to tighten federal character enforcement to ensure fair representation

Nigeria Flag

lBy Adeola Badru

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the enforcement of the Federal Character principle across federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as part of efforts to promote fairness, balanced representation and equitable distribution of opportunities among all states of the federation.

The Federal Character Commissioner representing Oyo State, Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye, gave the assurance yesterday during a press conference and inaugural meeting with staff of the Commission in Oyo State, reiterating the government’s resolve to ensure stricter compliance with the policy in recruitment, appointments and resource allocation across federal institutions.

He said the Commission, inaugurated on January 22, 2026, under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran had already begun strengthening oversight mechanisms to promote equitable representation among the states of the federation.

“The Commission has intensified strict monitoring and compliance efforts to ensure that recruitment, appointments, promotions and the distribution of infrastructure and social amenities in the public service reflect fairness, equity and balanced representation among all states of the federation,” Abass-Aleshinloye said.

According to him, the constitutional mandate of the Federal Character Commission goes beyond employment matters to include equitable access to national resources and the balanced distribution of infrastructure and opportunities.

“The mandate of the Federal Character Commission goes far beyond employment and distribution of opportunities. It fundamentally promotes fairness, equity and balanced representation among all states and ethnic groups at all tiers of government, federal, state and local,” he stated.

He stressed that the Federal Character principle remained central to Nigeria’s unity and national integration, noting that it ensures every part of the country has a sense of belonging in governance.

“The Federal Character principle remains one of the pillars for promoting unity, national integration and inclusiveness in our diverse nation.”

“It ensures that no section of the country feels marginalised and that every state and region has a sense of belonging in the governance and administration of our great nation,” he said.

Abass-Aleshinloye assured Nigerians that the Commission would sustain engagement with stakeholders and federal institutions to improve transparency and strengthen adherence to federal character guidelines.

“We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that recruitment, appointments, promotions, infrastructure and policy implementation in the public service reflect the diversity of our country and adhere strictly to the guidelines laid down by the Commission,” he added.

The commissioner also assured residents of Oyo State that their interests would be adequately represented in federal opportunities.

“I want to assure the good people of Oyo State that their interests and concerns remain well represented at the Commission.”

“We are committed to ensuring that the state receives its fair share in federal opportunities while also encouraging merit, competence and professionalism in the public service,” he said.

The commissioner called on government institutions, political leaders, civil society groups and citizens to support policies that promote fairness, transparency and national cohesion.

“At this time in our national journey, it is important for all stakeholders to support initiatives that promote fairness, transparency and national cohesion,” he said.

Addressing staff of the Commission in the state, Abass-Aleshinloye described the meeting as the beginning of a renewed partnership aimed at strengthening the Commission’s mandate.

“Your role in implementing the policies and directives of the Commission is critical to achieving our collective objectives. I urge you all to remain professional, committed and transparent in the discharge of your duties.”

He also commended the media for its role in promoting accountability and democratic governance, adding that “the media plays a vital role in informing the public and strengthening democratic governance. Your partnership in amplifying issues of national development and accountability is highly appreciated.”

He urged Nigerians to remain committed to unity, peace and fairness in the collective pursuit of national progress.

“I urge all Nigerians to remain committed to the ideals of unity, peace and fairness as we continue to work together for the progress and prosperity of our country,” Abass-Aleshinloye added.