By Jude Opara
President Bola Tinubu on Monday reiterated his resolve to ensure that every Nigerian, irrespective of his or her background will have a stake in the affairs of the nation.
Tinubu who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume at the occasion of the principle of federal character workshop organized by the Federal Character Commission (FCC) for the 774 Local Government Chairmen of the country.
The President urged leaders to continue to build a more united and prosperous Nigeria; adding that justice equity and mutual respect must be the watchword.
“As we continue to build a more united and prosperous Nigeria, let us remain guided by the principles of justice, equity, and mutual respect. Let us work together to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of background, has a stake in the affairs of our nation.
He promised that under his leadership, the country will continue pursue unity, equity and justice for a sustainable development, irrespective of the nation’s diversity, which he identified as one of her strongest points.
“Nigeria’s diversity remains one of its greatest endowments. Our multiplicity of cultures, ethnicities, and beliefs forms a vibrant national tapestry that must be carefully managed through fairness, justice, and inclusiveness.
“The principle of Federal Character, firmly rooted in Section 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), provides us with the institutional and moral framework to achieve this noble objective”.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Executive Chairman of the FCC, Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran said the theme of the workshop — Translating Federal Character Principles into Local Governance: Bridging Policy and Practice is both apt and compelling because it challenges administrators to move beyond theoretical understanding and focus on practical implementation.
Omidiran said Local Government Councils occupy strategic position in the lives of the people because it the very tier of government closest them; hence the importance of the workshop in enhancing mutual coexistence in the country.
“Today’s gathering is both timely and significant. It reflects our collective determination to strengthen the foundations of unity, fairness, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence within our dear nation. As leaders and stakeholders in governance, we must continually remind ourselves that national unity is not built by mere declarations, but through deliberate policies and actions that give every citizen a genuine sense of belonging.
“Nigeria remains one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. Our ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversities are not obstacles to nationhood; rather, they are valuable strengths capable of driving national growth when managed with equity, justice, and sincerity of purpose.
“The Local Government system remains the bedrock of governance at the grassroots. It is the closest arm of government to the people and the primary channel through which democratic dividends are expected to reach local communities”.
The FCC boss further admonished the Chairmen to always remember their critical role in the promotion of unity and managing the diversity within communities.
“As Chairmen of your respective Local Government Areas, you occupy strategic positions in shaping public confidence, social harmony, and community development.
“Your leadership must continually reflect fairness, transparency, tolerance, and justice. Every citizen, regardless of tribe, religion, or social background, must feel recognized and included within the governance structure of their communities”.
She equally praised the efforts of the administration of Bola Tinubu towards strengthening Local Government autonomy in Nigeria.
In his goodwill message, the Director General of the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), Funsho Aluko, said the training is founded upon a simple but profound truth that local government is where citizens encounter the state most directly.
He said; “When a primary healthcare centre functions, a community road becomes passable, sanitation improves or vulnerable citizens receive support, government ceases to be an abstract institution- it becomes a living source of dignity, confidence and hope”.
Aluko however, advised the Chairmen to always remember that the autonomy must always travel with responsibility.
“Greater authority must produce higher standards of transparent budgeting, prudent financial management, merit-based appointments, procurement integrity, audit compliance and meaningful citizen engagement”.
The workshop was attended by representatives from all the 774 Local Government Councils of the federation.
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