Plateau Youths Decry Marginalisation of Indigenes in Federal Institutions
By Comfort Pius, Jos
Concerned youths in Plateau State have raised alarm over what they described as the continued marginalisation of Plateau indigenes in appointments and employment opportunities within federal institutions located in the state.
Addressing journalists during a press conference in Jos on Friday, June 12, 2026, the Convener of the Concerned Plateau Youths, Nanla Nanzing, said the group was compelled to speak out against what it termed the persistent exclusion of qualified Plateau indigenes from key positions in federal establishments operating within the state.
Nanzing said the situation had persisted for years despite repeated appeals to relevant authorities to ensure fairness, equity and compliance with the federal character principle in appointments and recruitment.
According to him, Plateau State hosts several federal institutions established to serve national interests and contribute to socio-economic development, yet many qualified indigenes remain underrepresented in employment and leadership positions within those establishments.
He said the trend had created widespread frustration among educated and competent young people in the state who possess the qualifications required to serve in such institutions.
“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,” Nanzing said.
The convener maintained that the federal character principle, as enshrined in the Constitution, was designed to promote inclusiveness and equitable representation of all parts of the country in public institutions.
He expressed concern that the spirit of the policy was not being adequately reflected in some federal agencies operating in Plateau State, resulting in what the group described as the exclusion of local professionals from employment opportunities.
Nanzing further noted that inadequate representation of Plateau indigenes in federal institutions had contributed to growing unemployment among young people and weakened confidence in public institutions.
According to him, many qualified indigenes have repeatedly been overlooked during recruitment exercises, while candidates from outside the state are allegedly given preference for positions that local professionals are equally qualified to occupy.
“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 ministries, departments and agencies to investigate the allegations and ensure strict compliance with guidelines governing appointments and recruitment into federal institutions.
The youths also urged elected representatives, traditional rulers, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at securing fair representation for Plateau indigenes in federal establishments operating in the state.
They argued that ensuring equitable participation of local populations in federal institutions would not only promote social justice but also strengthen public trust, foster national unity and contribute to sustainable development.
The group warned that continued neglect of the concerns could deepen feelings of exclusion among young people and undermine efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and inclusive governance.
While reiterating the group’s commitment to peaceful and lawful engagement, Nanzing urged relevant authorities to address the issues raised without delay.
“We remain committed to constructive dialogue and peaceful advocacy. Our demand is simple: qualified Plateau indigenes should be given fair consideration in appointments and employment opportunities within federal institutions operating in our state,” he said.
The Concerned Plateau Youths expressed hope that their concerns would receive prompt attention and lead to practical measures aimed at ensuring fairness, inclusiveness and equal opportunities for all citizens.
