The practice of inclusive representation in Nigeria bureaucracy: The federal character principle experience

This paper reviews the application of federal character principle (FCP) in Nigerian civil service for inclusive representation and national unity. It draws on case studies and empirical works on the exacerbated disunity, persistent primordial sectional loyalty over national loyalty. It adopts face-to-face interviews, documentary and thematic analyses. Findings reveal that FCP has negative effects on Nigerian bureaucracy following the way it has been applied. It illustrates how inter-ethnic rivalry and national disunity continue unabated because of governance issues associated with representative bureaucracy. A number of research priorities linking inequalities between federating units are identified for the immediate attention of researchers whose research interest areas may include practice and the future of Nigeria bureaucracy. The paper, however, argues for sound governance model as a substitute for FCP. It highlights the components of sound governance model to include citizen active participation, collaboration, network, equity, stronger regulations, etc. Its implications for public trust, equity and public-service diversity management and national unity in Nigeria's democratic governance were equally highlighted.