FCC Begins Institutional Reform Retreat, Seeks Stronger Role in National Cohesion
Oru Leonard
The Federal Character Commission (FCC) has commenced its 2026 Executive and Management Leadership Retreat in Ikogosi-Ekiti, with a renewed commitment to reposition the Commission as a more responsive, transparent and innovative institution capable of strengthening national cohesion and restoring public confidence.
Speaking at the opening of the five-day retreat, the Executive Chairman of the FCC, Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, said the Commission must evolve to effectively meet the changing expectations of Nigerians through improved implementation of the Federal Character Principle.
The retreat, themed “Repositioning the Federal Character Commission for Institutional Renewal, Leadership Cohesion and National Relevance,” brings together Honourable Commissioners, management staff and key stakeholders to develop strategies aimed at enhancing the Commission’s constitutional mandate.
Omidiran described the gathering as a defining moment in the Commission’s history, noting that it offers an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the Board and Management, build institutional capacity and chart a new direction for greater effectiveness.
“As the constitutional institution entrusted with promoting and enforcing the Federal Character Principle, our responsibility extends beyond regulatory oversight. We must strengthen our institutional capacity, uphold professionalism and integrity, and reposition the Commission to respond effectively to the evolving expectations of Nigerians,” she said.
Representing Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, reaffirmed the state’s support for the Commission’s reform agenda. She said the retreat’s theme aligns with Nigeria’s aspirations for unity, fairness and equal opportunity.
According to the governor, the FCC remains a critical institution for promoting balanced representation, social justice and national integration, urging participants to develop innovative and practical solutions that would enhance the Commission’s credibility, effectiveness and public impact.
The retreat, which runs from July 7 to July 11, features presentations by leading governance and public administration experts, including retired Permanent Secretary Mr. Olusade Adesola, former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Prof. Oladapo Afolabi, Hon. Pam Botmang, Prof. Chris Kwaja and Mr. Idowu Bakare.
Discussions focus on the constitutional framework guiding the Commission, leadership and institutional renewal, public trust, and lessons from successful institutional reforms in countries such as Rwanda and the United States.
The Commission said the retreat is expected to produce practical recommendations that will strengthen its capacity to deliver on its constitutional mandate while promoting equity, inclusion and national unity across Nigeria.
