During a two-day induction and sensitization workshop held in Abuja for members of the FCC’s fifth Board, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, emphasized the constitutional importance of the federal character principle. Represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Professor Babatunde Bernard, Akume described the principle as a foundational element for national unity and cohesion. He stressed that its strict implementation is non-negotiable, as it plays a vital role in fostering trust among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and regional groups.
Akume praised the FCC for organizing the workshop, noting its alignment with the federal government’s broader goals of promoting inclusive governance and strengthening public institutions. He called on board members to approach their duties with professionalism, objectivity, and unwavering adherence to the constitution. According to him, the public’s perception of fairness and justice in governance hinges significantly on the commission’s actions.
The SGF further highlighted the need for the FCC to enhance its oversight mechanisms through data-driven approaches, improve transparency, and collaborate closely with stakeholders. These efforts, he said, are essential to realizing President Bola Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope" agenda, which prioritizes equitable representation and effective service delivery.
In her address, the FCC Chairman, Ayo Omidiran, described the workshop as a pivotal moment marking the transition from appointment to active service. She assured that the fifth Board would not operate under a "business as usual" mindset but would instead focus on strict compliance with the commission’s enabling laws, ethical standards, and accountability. Omidiran reiterated the FCC’s commitment to enforcing the federal character principle without bias, emphasizing its role as a stabilizing force in Nigeria’s diverse society.
Omidiran explained that the faithful application of the principle would strengthen national unity, trust, and social harmony. She noted that the workshop was designed to provide clarity of purpose, foster a shared understanding among board members, and ensure strategic coherence in their operations. The chairman reminded attendees of the high expectations placed on them and the need to execute their responsibilities with discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the law.
Adding his voice to the discussion, the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, emphasized the FCC’s strategic role in Nigeria’s constitutional framework. He described national unity as a practical necessity rather than a mere ideal and urged the commission to balance inclusivity with competence and professionalism. Gbajabiamila cautioned against reducing the federal character principle to symbolic gestures or using it to justify mediocrity in public service.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character Commission, Ahmed Wase, also delivered a goodwill message, pledging the National Assembly’s support for the FCC. He encouraged board members to prioritize national interest over personal considerations in their work, reinforcing the importance of their role in maintaining equitable representation across the country.
The workshop, organized by the FCC, aimed to align the vision of the new board, enhance internal cohesion, and equip members with practical tools for effective enforcement of the federal character principle. The event’s theme, "Guide to Implementation and Enforcement of Federal Character Principle," reflects its focus on providing actionable strategies for the commission’s mandate.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the workshop brought together key stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in implementing the federal character principle, with a shared goal of promoting fairness and inclusivity in Nigeria’s public institutions.
