The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called for the effective implementation of the Federal Character Principle at the grassroots, describing it as essential to making every Nigerian feel a sense of belonging in the country.
Issa-Onilu made the call in a goodwill message at the Federal Character Commission’s workshop for Local Government Chairmen, held in Abuja from August 24 to 25, 2026, on the theme, “Deepening National Unity Through Grassroots Implementation of the Federal Character Principle”. He said Federal Character should be viewed beyond appointments, describing it as a principle of belonging that promotes fairness, inclusion and equal opportunities.
The NOA Director-General noted that Nigerians experience government primarily at the local level through roads, schools, healthcare, employment opportunities and other basic services. He therefore urged Local Government Areas to become centres of national cohesion where citizens could experience equity, responsible governance and inclusion.
He commended the Federal Character Commission and its partners for organising the workshop, urging participants to ensure that the knowledge and insights they gain from it translate into practical actions that strengthen unity and deepen citizens’ confidence in Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a keynote address delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, also charged Local Government Chairmen to uphold fairness, transparency and balance in appointments, administration and the distribution of opportunities and resources. He said inclusive governance would strengthen public confidence, social cohesion and national unity.
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, said the workshop was aimed at generating practical strategies for strengthening inclusive governance and national integration.
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