The Federal Character Commission has expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of Federal tertiary institutions conducting staff recruitment exercises without adhering to the Federal Character Principle, which ensures equity, fairness and justice as mandated by Section 14 (B) of the Nigerian Constitution.
Following the circular Ref: CM/1/S.II/1/304 dated 18th December 2023 from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, titled “Relieve of Federal Tertiary Institutions from obtaining Approval and Waiver from the office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for recruitment,” some Federal tertiary institutions have proceeded with recruitment activities without consulting the Federal Character Commission (FCC) and its recruitment guidelines.
This decision, which stemmed from a Federal Executive Council meeting (EC (2023)23) has raised concerns regarding the adherence to equitable representation across states and geopolitical zones in these institutions.
The mandate of the Federal Character Commission is clear: to enforce the Federal Character Principle, ensuring the fair distribution of posts and socio-economic amenities among the federating units nationwide. The circular issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation did not exempt Federal tertiary institutions from complying with the Federal Character Principle. Therefore, it is imperative that all Federal tertiary institutions strictly adhere to the guidelines provided by the Federal Character Commission, as outlined in its handbook.
Failure to comply with the Federal Character Commission’s recruitment guidelines constitutes an offense under Section 14, punishable under Section 15 of the Act. The commission emphasised that any recruitment activity undertaken without abiding by these guidelines will be met with legal repercussions.
In light of this directive, the commission called upon the National Universities Commission (NUC), National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), heads of Federal institutions and other relevant authorities to ensure strict compliance with the Federal Character Principle in all recruitment exercises within Federal tertiary institutions.
Furthermore, the commission underscored the importance of upholding the principles of equity, fairness, and justice in all aspects of governance and institutional operations. Compliance with the Federal Character Principle not only promotes national unity and cohesion but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and belonging among all citizens.
“As custodians of the nation’s values and constitutional mandates, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders to uphold the Federal Character Principle and work towards building a more equitable and just society for all Nigerians. Through collective efforts and adherence to established guidelines, we can ensure that our Federal tertiary institutions reflect the diversity and richness of our nation, contributing to the advancement of education and national development,” a statement by the commission’s director, public affairs and communication, Dr. Chuks Okoli said.
The Federal Character Commission said it remained committed to promoting and enforcing the Federal Character Principle across all sectors, fostering unity and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.
