Femi Gbajabiamila Tells FCC, Federal Character Must Uphold Competence, Not Undermine It

Femi Gbajabiamila, The Chief of Staff to the President has warned newly inaugurated members of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) that the pursuit of inclusion and fairness in federal institutions must not come at the expense of competence, professionalism, or efficiency.

Gbajabiamila delivered this message on Tuesday in Abuja during a two-day induction programme for the commission’s recently sworn-in commissioners.

He reminded the commissioners that the FCC was established by the Constitution to ensure that the composition and operations of the Federal Government and its agencies reflect Nigeria’s federal character while promoting national unity.

The Chief of Staff described this mandate as essential to Nigeria’s peace and stability, particularly as the nation navigates shifting global dynamics.

Emphasizing that federal character should not be reduced to a quota system, Gbajabiamila stressed that inclusion must strengthen, rather than weaken, institutional effectiveness.

“Federal character must never become a mere arithmetic exercise. It must exist alongside competence, professionalism, and efficiency,” he stated.

He called on the commissioners to resist external pressures, act with courage, and remain guided by constitutional principles in all matters relating to recruitment, appointments, and the distribution of projects.

Gbajabiamila also pointed out that federal character extends beyond political appointments to include the equitable distribution of infrastructure, social services, and national resources.

He noted that the commission functions as a vital check within the executive branch, preventing division, fostering public confidence, and ensuring that inclusion does not compromise excellence.

In his welcome address, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Prof. Babatunde Bernard, described the induction as both timely and strategic. He said it was designed to enhance governance and boost institutional performance.

According to Akume, the workshop aims to reposition the commission as a proactive, transparent, and results-driven institution.

The Executive Chairman of the FCC, Hulayat Omidiran, said the induction signaled the commissioners’ formal transition from appointment to active service.

She highlighted the commission’s crucial role in Nigeria’s governance framework, noting its responsibility to promote fairness, inclusiveness, balance, and justice in a diverse society.

Omidiran revealed that the board would prioritize modern monitoring techniques, data-driven compliance, and credible enforcement mechanisms. She emphasized that under the new leadership, there would be a departure from the status quo.

“The FCC must carry out its duties without fear or favor, guided by national interest, the law, and principles of fairness that strengthen excellence across the federation,” she affirmed.