Omidiran Seeks Improved Funding to Reposition Federal Character Commission

Former member of the Nigeria Football Federation and Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has reaffirmed her leadership’s resolve to reposition the Commission and strengthen enforcement of the federal character principle despite persistent funding constraints.

Hon. Omidiran gave the assurance on Friday during the Commission’s 2026 budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character at the National Assembly in Abuja.

She told lawmakers that inadequate budgetary allocations have continued to hamper the Commission’s statutory responsibilities, including nationwide monitoring, compliance audits and enforcement actions across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

“We are focused and determined to do the work that the Constitution and the President have entrusted us with,” Omidiran stated.

The FCC boss, however, maintained that the Commission remains committed to promoting equity, fairness and balanced representation in line with its constitutional mandate.

“As a Commission, it is our responsibility to engage with relevant government parastatals and ministries to secure the necessary funding we require. We believe that with consultation and collaboration, it will be a successful venture for the Commission,” she added.

Earlier, Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character, Ahmed Idris Wase, expressed concern over what he described as near-zero allocation to the Commission, warning that such financial shortfalls significantly weaken its operational effectiveness.

The Plateau State lawmaker assured the Commission of the Committee’s legislative backing in pushing for improved funding and enhanced capacity to fully execute its constitutional mandate.

“We cannot reasonably expect the Federal Character Commission to enforce compliance across Ministries, Departments and Agencies while grappling with insufficient funding,” Wase said.

“If we are genuinely committed to fairness, equity and national cohesion, then we must be deliberate in adequately funding the institution established to safeguard these principles.

“As a Committee, we shall work closely with the leadership of the Commission to ensure that its budgetary provisions reflect the magnitude of its mandate. The era of skeletal or token funding must give way to realistic and sustainable financial support,” he added.

The budget defence session ended with both the House Committee and the Commission pledging closer collaboration aimed at strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing accountability and promoting equitable representation within Nigeria’s public service.

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