The Nigerian Senate, on May 13, 2025, escalated its investigation into violations of the Federal Character Principle in federal government recruitment, threatening sanctions against agencies failing to ensure equitable representation across Nigeria’s 36 states and 774 local governments. The probe, initiated by the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, aims to address systemic imbalances in public sector employment.
The Federal Character Principle, enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, mandates fair representation of all states and ethnic groups in federal institutions to promote national unity. The Senate’s action follows 2024 reports showing 60% of senior positions in 20 ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) concentrated among five states, despite 250 ethnic groups. The committee, chaired by Senator Allwell Onyesoh, identified infractions in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), where 70% of 2024 recruitments favored specific geopolitical zones, per Federal Character Commission (FCC) data.
The probe, covering 2015–2024, examines 500 MDAs, with hearings revealing 10,000 unadvertised recruitments, violating FCC guidelines requiring public vacancy announcements. Sanctions include dismissal of non-compliant officials, funding cuts, and prosecution under the Public Service Rules. The Senate summoned heads of 30 MDAs, including the Nigerian Customs Service, where 80% of 2023 promotions went to one region. Nigeria’s 33% unemployment rate and 24.48% inflation exacerbate tensions, as job access fuels ethnic rivalries.
Challenges include political interference, with 40% of FCC waivers issued under pressure, and a 15% compliance rate among parastatals. The committee plans a digital recruitment portal by 2026 to enforce transparency, backed by a ₦500 million budget. Critics argue the probe risks politicization, citing past unpunished violations, while supporters see it as vital for equity in a nation where 70 million lack formal employment. The Senate’s December 2025 report could reshape hiring policies, but enforcement remains critical to addressing Nigeria’s diversity challenges.