Federal Character Commission warns MDAs against breach of recruitment rules

By Kunle Sanni –

The Federal Character Commission (FCC) has warned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) against flouting recruitment rules, insisting that future violations will not be tolerated.

Acting Executive Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Kayode Oladele, issued the warning in Abuja, emphasizing that the FCC’s constitutional mandate is to ensure fairness and inclusivity in public service appointments.

“No MDA is permitted to issue letters of appointment without first obtaining the Commission’s Certificate of Compliance,” Oladele stated.

He explained that vacancies must be advertised in at least two national newspapers for a minimum of six weeks, with applications accepted both online and in hard copy. Shortlisting, he added, must reflect state-by-state distribution and deliberately include women and persons with disabilities.

Oladele further noted that aptitude tests may be conducted by public institutions such as ASCON, CMD, and PSIN, but must not be outsourced to private firms.

He linked the strict enforcement of these rules to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes fairness and equity, stressing that merit and competence will not be compromised under the guise of the Federal Character principle.

The Commission also directed that final lists of successful candidates be published in two national newspapers, while MDAs are required to submit updated nominal rolls within three months of issuing appointment letters.

Oladele warned against the misuse of casual or contract staff, noting that such practices distort staff distribution patterns and require FCC approval.