The Nigerian Senate has commenced an investigative hearing into the implementation of the Federal Character Principle in public sector recruitment, amid growing concerns over regional imbalance and perceived marginalization in federal appointments.
The probe, led by the Senate Committee on Federal Character, seeks to evaluate how ministries, departments, and agencies have complied with the constitutional requirement for equitable representation of Nigeria’s diverse regions.
Lawmakers indicated their readiness to amend the Federal Character Act to make it more enforceable and responsive to the current socio-political realities.
During the opening session, the committee chairman warned CEOs and agency heads invited to the panel that failure to appear would attract strict consequences. Among the agencies invited for questioning was the Nigeria Customs Service, as lawmakers examined recruitment practices across the federal civil service.
Senators expressed unanimous concern over mounting public dissatisfaction with perceived unfairness in job distribution, particularly among rural populations who often lack internet access and awareness of recruitment windows.
Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi emphasized that lawmakers are facing pressure from constituents who feel excluded from federal employment opportunities.
Also speaking, Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno highlighted the Federal Character Principle as essential to national unity and representation. “It’s because of the Federal Character Principle that we have a Vice President from Kanuri and a Chief Whip of the Senate. It must be protected and implemented faithfully,” he asserted.
Lawmakers reiterated that unless the Federal Character law is strengthened and strictly enforced, the growing perception of systemic exclusion could deepen distrust and division among Nigerians.
What you should know
The Senate is investigating alleged imbalances in federal recruitment and considering reforms to the Federal Character Act.
Lawmakers say the current system disadvantages many citizens—especially from rural areas—and must be made more transparent, inclusive, and enforceable.
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