By CHRISTY ZI
Concerned youths in Plateau State have raised concerns over what they described as the continued marginalisation of indigenes in appointments and employment within federal institutions operating in the state.
At a press conference in Jos on Friday, the Convener of the Concerned Plateau Youths, Nanla Nanzing, said the group was speaking out against what it termed the persistent exclusion of qualified indigenes from key positions in federal establishments located in the state.
He said the situation had persisted for years despite repeated appeals for fairness, equity and compliance with the federal character principle in recruitment and appointments.
According to him, Plateau hosts several federal institutions established for national development, but many qualified indigenes remain underrepresented in both employment and leadership positions.
Nanzing said this has created frustration among educated young people who meet the requirements for such roles.
“We are not asking for special treatment. We are only demanding fairness, justice and equal opportunities for Plateau indigenes in federal institutions located within our state,” he said.
He maintained that the federal character principle, as provided in the Constitution, was intended to ensure inclusive representation across public institutions.
He expressed concern that the principle was not being adequately reflected in some federal agencies operating in the state.
Nanzing said this has contributed to unemployment and declining confidence in public institutions among young people.
He alleged that qualified indigenes were frequently overlooked during recruitment, while outsiders were sometimes preferred for roles locals were equally qualified to fill.
“We believe that when institutions situated in Plateau State fail to adequately engage qualified indigenes, it sends the wrong signal to young people who have invested years in education and professional development,” he said.
The group called on the Federal Government, the Federal Character Commission, and relevant agencies to investigate the allegations and enforce compliance with recruitment guidelines.
It also urged elected representatives, traditional rulers, civil society groups and other stakeholders to support fair representation for indigenes in federal institutions within the state.
The group expressed hope that the concerns would be addressed and lead to improved fairness and inclusion.