Published by Naijajistreal96
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sworn in the newly appointed Chairman and Commissioners of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), marking a significant step in his administration’s efforts to strengthen fairness, inclusiveness, and national cohesion in public service appointments.
The swearing-in and inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where the President congratulated the new Chairman of the commission, Hulayat Omidiran, alongside commissioners drawn from across the country.
The development signals the formal reactivation of the Federal Character Commission, a constitutional body mandated to ensure that Nigeria’s diversity is reflected in government appointments, employment, and the distribution of public offices.
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Equity
Speaking during the ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized that the Federal Character Commission remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy. He noted that the principle of federal character was designed to promote unity, reduce marginalization, and give every segment of the country a sense of belonging.
According to the President, fairness in representation is essential for building trust in government institutions and sustaining national stability.
He urged the new FCC leadership to approach their responsibilities with sincerity, professionalism, and strict adherence to the constitution, stressing that Nigerians expect tangible outcomes from the commission’s work.
Charge to the New FCC Leadership
President Tinubu reminded the chairman and commissioners that their mandate goes beyond ceremonial duties, calling on them to actively monitor compliance across ministries, departments, and agencies of government.
He stressed that the credibility of the Federal Character Commission depends on its ability to act independently, transparently, and courageously in enforcing the law, regardless of pressure or political influence.
The President also highlighted the need for collaboration with other oversight institutions to ensure that the federal character principle is not only observed in theory but implemented in practice.
Hulayat Omidiran Assumes Office as Chairman
Newly inaugurated FCC Chairman, Hulayat Omidiran, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in her, pledging to lead the commission with integrity and dedication.
She assured Nigerians that under her leadership, the FCC would work to strengthen inclusion, fairness, and equal opportunity in public sector recruitment and appointments.
Omidiran emphasized that the commission would remain guided by constitutional provisions while engaging relevant stakeholders to enhance compliance nationwide.
Commissioners Take Oath of Office
Alongside the chairman, the commissioners took their oaths of office, officially assuming their roles as members of the commission.
The commissioners represent Nigeria’s geopolitical zones and are expected to bring regional perspectives into the commission’s work, reinforcing the federal character principle as a tool for unity rather than division.
The oath-taking ceremony was witnessed by top government officials, aides to the President, and other invited dignitaries at the Presidential Villa.
Role of the Federal Character Commission
The Federal Character Commission is constitutionally empowered to ensure equitable representation of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic, regional, and religious groups in public service institutions.
Its responsibilities include monitoring recruitment processes, promotions, and appointments across federal agencies to prevent domination by any single group or region.
The commission also advises government on policies that promote balance and inclusiveness, making its leadership critical to Nigeria’s governance framework.
Public Expectations and National Significance
The inauguration of the FCC leadership comes at a time when calls for fairness and inclusion remain prominent in national discourse.
Many Nigerians view the commission as a key institution capable of addressing long-standing grievances related to representation and access to opportunities in government service.
Analysts believe that a proactive and transparent FCC could help reduce tensions, foster trust, and promote a stronger sense of national unity.
Tinubu’s Broader Governance Agenda
President Tinubu’s administration has consistently emphasized institutional reforms and adherence to constitutional principles as part of its governance agenda.
The swearing-in of the FCC leadership aligns with broader efforts to strengthen public institutions and ensure that governance reflects Nigeria’s diversity.
Observers note that effective leadership at the FCC could complement ongoing reforms aimed at improving accountability and fairness across the public sector.
Looking Ahead
With the formal inauguration concluded, attention now shifts to how the new FCC leadership will translate constitutional ideals into measurable action.
Stakeholders expect increased monitoring, timely reports, and decisive interventions where violations of the federal character principle are identified.
As the chairman and commissioners settle into office, Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the commission rises to the challenge of promoting equity and balanced representation across the federation
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