FG Pledges Stricter Monitoring of Federal Appointments to Ensure Equity, Balanced Representatio
The Federal Character Commissioner representing Oyo State, Prince Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the enforcement of the Federal Character principle across federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to promote fairness, balanced representation and equitable distribution of opportunities among Nigeria’s states.
Abass-Aleshinloye made this known on Thursday during a press conference and inaugural meeting with staff of the Federal Character Commission in Oyo State, where he emphasised the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement of the constitutional principle guiding appointments and resource distribution in the country.
He explained that the Commission would intensify oversight activities to ensure that federal ministries, departments and agencies strictly comply with the Federal Character principle as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to him, the newly inaugurated Commission, which was formally constituted on January 22, 2026, under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, has already begun strengthening mechanisms aimed at improving compliance and ensuring equitable representation of all states in federal institutions.
“The Commission has intensified strict monitoring and compliance efforts to ensure that recruitment, appointments, promotions and the distribution of infrastructure and social amenities in the public service reflect fairness, equity and balanced representation among all states of the federation,” Abass-Aleshinloye stated.
He further explained that the constitutional mandate of the Federal Character Commission goes beyond employment matters to include equitable access to national resources and balanced distribution of development opportunities across the country.
“The mandate of the Federal Character Commission goes far beyond employment and distribution of opportunities. It fundamentally promotes fairness, equity and balanced representation among all states and ethnic groups at all tiers of government—federal, state and local,” he said.
The commissioner stressed that the Federal Character principle remains one of the critical pillars for sustaining Nigeria’s unity and national integration, particularly in a diverse society with multiple ethnic and cultural identities.
He noted that the policy ensures that no section of the country feels marginalised in governance and public administration.
“The Federal Character principle remains one of the pillars for promoting unity, national integration and inclusiveness in our diverse nation. It ensures that no section of the country feels marginalised and that every state and region has a sense of belonging in the governance and administration of our great nation,” he added.
Abass-Aleshinloye assured Nigerians that the Commission would continue to engage stakeholders, government institutions and other relevant bodies to improve transparency and strengthen compliance with the established federal character guidelines.
“We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that recruitment, appointments, promotions, infrastructure and policy implementation in the public service reflect the diversity of our country and adhere strictly to the guidelines laid down by the Commission,” he said.
He also reassured residents of Oyo State that their interests would be adequately represented in federal opportunities, noting that the Commission would continue to advocate fairness while maintaining the principles of merit and professionalism.
“I want to assure the good people of Oyo State that their interests and concerns remain well represented at the Commission. We are committed to ensuring that the state receives its fair share in federal opportunities while also encouraging merit, competence and professionalism in the public service,” he said.
The commissioner called on government institutions, political leaders, civil society organisations and citizens to support policies and initiatives that promote fairness, transparency and national cohesion.
“At this time in our national journey, it is important for all stakeholders to support initiatives that promote fairness, transparency and national cohesion,” he said.
Addressing staff of the Commission in the state, Abass-Aleshinloye described the meeting as the beginning of a renewed partnership aimed at strengthening the Commission’s mandate and improving service delivery.
“Your role in implementing the policies and directives of the Commission is critical to achieving our collective objectives. I urge you all to remain professional, committed and transparent in the discharge of your duties,” he stated.
He also commended the media for its role in promoting accountability and democratic governance, stressing that journalists remain important partners in national development.
“The media plays a vital role in informing the public and strengthening democratic governance. Your partnership in amplifying issues of national development and accountability is highly appreciated,” he said.
Abass-Aleshinloye concluded by urging Nigerians to remain committed to the ideals of unity, peace and fairness as the country continues to pursue collective progress and national development.
“I urge all Nigerians to remain committed to the ideals of unity, peace and fairness as we continue to work together for the progress and prosperity of our country,” he added.