From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
In a bid to strengthen collaboration on promoting transparency, fairness, and inclusivity in Nigeria’s governance and public service, a delegation of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) met with the Federal Character Commission (FCC) on Thursday in Abuja.
The Acting Chairman of the FCC, Oladele Kayode, highlighted the constitutional foundation and expansive mandate of the FCC. He emphasised, “The Federal Character Commission is a constitutional creation, grounded in Sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as the FCC Act of 1995.”
He articulated the FCC’s core responsibilities: “To ensure equitable representation in public service appointments and promotions; to guarantee fair distribution of socio-economic resources like schools, scholarships, infrastructure, and healthcare; and to monitor and enforce compliance with the federal character principle across all institutions.”
He further underscored that this mandate underpins national unity in Nigeria’s diverse society of over 250 ethnic groups, stating, “Equity is the foundation that keeps our federation strong and peaceful.”
The Chairman explained the FCC’s reach beyond Abuja, noting its jurisdiction extends to states, local governments, and even major private corporations. “At the state level, we monitor appointments, promotions, and projects to ensure no senatorial district or ethnic group is left out,” he said. At the grassroots, “every ward and community deserves a fair share of opportunities,” and inclusiveness extends to private-sector corporations that operate nationally.
Recognising the challenges of physical presence and enforcement, the Chairman warmly welcomed CISLAC’s role as essential partners in advocacy and citizen engagement. “NGOs like CISLAC are indispensable. You bring awareness of citizens’ rights to communities that may never have direct contact with the FCC,” he said. “You serve as the eyes and ears of accountability, monitoring violations and raising alarms when exclusion occurs.” He called for a stronger partnership: “Help us hold institutions accountable and build mechanisms that make equity a daily practice in Nigeria.”
The FCC Chairman expressed hope for a continued partnership: “Together, let us ensure that no Nigerian feels excluded, that opportunities are fairly shared, and that equity becomes the bond that holds this nation together.”
The Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, echoed this, saying, “We stand ready to partner with you to promote equity, justice, and accountability in governance. Together, we can ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of background, has a fair share in the nation’s opportunities.”
He extended greetings and appreciation. “We commend the Federal Character Commission for the vital role it continues to play in upholding fairness, equity, and inclusivity in our country,” he said. He recognised the Federal Character Principle as a constitutional safeguard “designed to foster unity in diversity and ensure that opportunities and socio-economic resources are equitably distributed among all Nigerians.”
Rafsanjani detailed CISLAC’s advocacy agenda, expressing the need for collaboration with the FCC in three key areas: “Promoting public education on the principles and mandate of the Commission; strengthening transparency and accountability in recruitment and appointments; and enhancing citizen engagement through visibility, dialogue, and participatory approaches.”
He stressed that such collaboration is “not just timely, but necessary” to reduce tension, mistrust, and marginalisation, and to build public confidence in government institutions.
CISLAC reiterated its commitment to support the FCC by providing platforms for advocacy, technical support, and strategic media engagement to amplify the FCC’s achievements. “We aim to work hand-in-hand to make sure Nigerians understand and appreciate the important role of the Commission, while holding the system accountable to equity and fairness,” Rafsanjani stated.
Both parties reaffirmed their call to action.
