President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on local government chairmen nationwide to make fairness, equal representation and inclusiveness central to their approach to governance. He urged them to ensure that appointments, administrative decisions and the allocation of public resources reflect the diverse interests of the people they serve.
The President made the call on Monday in Abuja through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume CON, who delivered his keynote address at a workshop organised by the Federal Character Commission for local government chairmen. The workshop focused on practical ways of applying Federal Character principles effectively at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the theme, “Translating Federal Character Principles into Local Governance: Bridging Policy and Practice,” Tinubu described Nigeria’s cultural, ethnic and religious diversity as a valuable national asset. He stressed that this diversity must be managed through justice, fairness and equal opportunities in order to strengthen national unity.
The President explained that the Federal Character principle, recognised under Section 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution, provides an important framework for ensuring that the composition and operations of government reflect the diversity of the Nigerian population. According to him, proper implementation of the principle promotes belonging, trust and loyalty among citizens.
President Tinubu emphasised the importance of local government councils as the level of government closest to the people. He therefore charged council chairmen to ensure that their administrations are transparent, balanced and accessible, particularly in the distribution of opportunities and resources.
He warned local government leaders against allowing sectional interests to influence governance, urging them instead to put the national interest above divisions and exclusion. He maintained that effective and inclusive leadership at the grassroots would strengthen citizens’ confidence in government and contribute to peace, stability and national development.
The President also linked fairness and representation with economic progress, noting that when citizens feel recognised and valued, social cohesion is strengthened, conflicts are reduced and communities become more conducive to development and innovation. He commended the Federal Character Commission for recognising the strategic importance of local governments in advancing the Federal Character principle.
President Tinubu described the workshop as an opportunity for council chairmen to acquire practical knowledge and develop workable approaches for promoting inclusive governance. He urged participants to take the lessons seriously and translate them into action, stressing that the strength and future of Nigeria’s democracy depend significantly on fair, responsible and inclusive institutions at the grassroots.
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