Dr. Muheebah Dankaka: The Doyen of Federal Character Principle in Nigeria
By Edwin Wisdom
The need for a federal character principle compliance society where every citizen is given access to resources and opportunities to realize their potential is desirous as a cornerstone for ethnic justice, fairness, equity and inclusivity that allows for national integration and unity. This underscore the shinning light of Dr. Muheeba Dankaka as the “Doyen of Federal Character Principle” in Nigeria.
As the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Dr. Muheebah Dankaka has not only been a shinning light of Federal Character Principle but also a driving force behind the promotion of fairness, justice, equity inclusivity and the principle compliance in Nigeria. Her tireless efforts to promoting fairness, justice, and inclusivity in Nigeria stands out.
As the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), she has been instrumental in ensuring compliance with the federal character principle, a principle which aims to promoting fairness, justice, equity and inclusivity in the distribution of resources and opportunities across different regions and groups of Nigeria in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Under Dr. Dankaka’s leadership, the FCC has taken significant steps to promoting inclusivity and diversity as a tool for national integration, unity and even distribution of opportunities for even development in the country.
As part of efforts to spur compliance, the commission has honored institutions and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional compliance with federal character principles, recent in the series is Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State, which received the FCC Compliance Award in recognition of the institution’s remarkable resurgence and valuable contributions to polytechnic administration in Nigeria.
Dr. Dankaka’s vision for a more inclusive Nigeria is built on the principles of fairness, justice, and equity which she has outlined in a comprehensive agenda for 2025, among which includes nationwide awareness campaigns, the establishment of a national implementation database, and the development of a diversity and inclusion framework.
These initiatives aim to promote awareness and understanding of the federal character principle, track and monitor its implementation, and ensure equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
Dr. Dankaka, an accomplished investment banker, business magnate, and philanthropist, brings a wealth of experience to her role as Executive Chairman of the FCC and this have not gone unnoticed as the commission has received recognition for its commitment to excellence.
Her vision for a more inclusive Nigeria is built on the principles of federal character, which emphasizes the importance of representation and equal opportunities for all.
Dr. Dankaka is a recipient of National Honour, Africa International Achievers’ Merit Award for Excellence in 2007 as a testament to her dedication and leadership. She has also received accolades and honored for her dedication to promoting fairness,justice, equity and inclusivity in recognition of her commitment to ensuring compliance to the federal character principle and passion for creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Dr. Muheebah Dankaka’s efforts to promote compliance with the federal character principle in MDAs are a significant step towards guaranteeing fairness, justice, equity and inclusivity in Nigeria. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in promoting awareness and understanding of this principle, and her commitment to excellence is an inspiration to all.
Recall, Under Dr. Dankaka’s leadership, the FCC has also organized national workshops and events, such as the two-day National Workshop on “Online Submission of Nominal Roll, Format and Processes” . An initiatives that demonstrates her commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in the implementation of federal character principles.
As Nigeria under the President Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda continues to strives for a more inclusive and equitable society, Dr. Muheebah Dankaka’s work will undoubtedly play a critical role in achieving this goal even as she remains the strategic gem for holding sway to the office of the Executive Chairman, Federal Character Commission.