FCC will uphold merit in recruitment — Acting Chairman

The Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Kayode Oladele, has reaffirmed that the application of the Federal Character principle will not undermine merit in recruitment into federal establishments.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during an interactive meeting with the Director-General of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi, Oladele stressed that the Commission under his leadership will “always promote merit” while ensuring fairness and equitable representation across all states.

“We are not de-marketing merit,” he said.

“The FCC will not compromise merit in the name of the Federal Character principle.

“We shall ensure that no state or individual is marginalized in line with the President’s renewed hope agenda.”

Oladele commended NOTAP’s management for its cooperative approach and urged the agency to correct observed lopsidedness in its nominal roll during future recruitment.

He warned that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that deliberately flout constitutional guidelines for recruitment will face legal sanctions.

“The FCC is empowered by the constitution and can prosecute erring MDAs.

“Let us collaborate to ensure fairness and justice, which will reduce agitation and promote peace in the country,” he stated.

Responding, Dr. Amadiobi thanked the FCC boss for the engagement, describing the meeting as “purpose-driven” and a milestone in fulfilling the mandates of both agencies.

“She pledged that NOTAP will strictly adhere to the Federal Character principle in future recruitment processes.

The meeting, according to Oladele, reflects the Commission’s broader commitment to equitable distribution of federal opportunities, infrastructure, and socio-economic amenities among Nigeria’s federating units.