With two examples, explain the meaning of federal character in Nigeria. (b) State three factors responsible for the introduction of the concept of federal c...

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of federal character (with two examples)

Federal character is a principle, enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, which requires that the composition of the government and its agencies, and the conduct of their affairs, should reflect the federal, ethnic, geographical and religious diversity of the country so as to promote national unity, give every section a sense of belonging and prevent the domination of the government by persons from a few states or ethnic groups. In short, appointments and the distribution of amenities and offices must fairly represent all the component parts of the federation. Examples of its application include:

• The requirement that the President appoints at least one minister from each of the 36 states of the federation.
• The use of quota system in admission into federal institutions such as the unity schools, the armed forces, the police and the federal civil service, so that candidates from all states are represented.

(b) Three factors responsible for the introduction of federal character

1. Ethnic diversity and rivalry: Nigeria is a multi-ethnic society and there was need to accommodate the many groups fairly and reduce inter-ethnic suspicion and rivalry.
2. Fear of domination and marginalisation: The minority and less developed groups feared domination by the larger and more advanced groups, so the principle was introduced to protect them and ensure equity.
3. The desire for national unity and integration: To bind the diverse peoples together, give every group a sense of belonging and foster loyalty to the nation, federal character was adopted.
4. Uneven development among the sections: Differences in educational and economic development among the regions made it necessary to balance opportunities so that no area was left behind.