The recent appointment of 16 new directors by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has once again exposed the deep-rooted regional favoritism within Nigeria’s federal institutions. Released on March 6, 2025, the list reveals a glaring marginalization of the northern region, with an overwhelming majority of appointees hailing from the southern part of the country. This unprecedented imbalance raises serious concerns about fairness, inclusivity, and the credibility of the apex financial institution.
A Breakdown of CBN’s Regional Bias
A critical analysis of the appointments indicates that out of the 16 newly appointed directors, 12 are from the southern region (South-West, South-South, and South-East), while only 4 are from the northern region (North-East, North-West, and North-Central). This staggering 75%-25% imbalance is unacceptable for an institution that should represent all regions equally.
Breakdown by Region:
– South-West: 6 Directors
– South-South: 3 Directors
– South-East: 3 Directors
– North-Central: 1 Director
– North-East: 1 Director
– North-West: 2 Directors
With 75% of the appointments going to the south and only 25% to the north, it is evident that the principles of fairness, equity, and federal character have been completely ignored.
A National Institution Hijacked by Regional Sentiments
The CBN, as a crucial institution responsible for monetary policy, financial stability, and economic growth, must adhere to the highest standards of governance. It should respect the rule of law, uphold good corporate governance, and remain free from corruption and regional bias. However, this latest round of appointments illustrates a dangerous trend of state capture, where key institutions are controlled by a particular group for political or economic advantage.
This brazen act of favoritism by the current administration is a direct assault on national unity and economic fairness. The CBN is meant to serve all Nigerians, not just a privileged few from one region.
The Silence of Northern Elders: A National Disgrace
Even more disgraceful is the deafening silence from northern elders, political leaders, and stakeholders who have chosen to look the other way. These individuals, who previously claimed to advocate for fairness and equity, have suddenly become mute in the face of evident injustice.
Their silence is not only disappointing but a betrayal of the people they claim to represent. They have compromised their positions, choosing personal gain over truth. If they had any integrity left, they would challenge the president’s blatant disregard for federal character and fair representation.
The Federal Character Commission: A Useless Watchdog That Should Be Scrapped
At this point, it is clear that the Federal Character Commission (FCC) has outlived its usefulness. Established to ensure equitable representation in federal appointments, it has utterly failed in its constitutional duty.
How did such a reckless and shameful decision by the CBN management escape the notice of the Federal Character Commission? Why is the FCC allowing federal institutions to be hijacked by one region while others are sidelined? What is the purpose of this commission if it cannot enforce fairness in appointments?
It appears that the FCC has either been compromised or is simply too weak to perform its duties. If it cannot stop such blatant regional domination, it should be scrapped immediately.
CBN Under Cardoso: A House of Controversy
Since assuming office, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso has led the institution into one controversy after another. From policy inconsistencies to failing monetary strategies, his leadership has raised serious doubts about the bank’s credibility.
This latest appointment scandal only further demonstrates that his administration is rooted in regional favoritism rather than professionalism and economic competence. How can he expect Nigerians to trust the CBN when his leadership is blatantly biased and politically motivated?
A Call for Immediate Redress
Nigeria is a diverse and multi-ethnic nation, and no part of the country should feel marginalized in national appointments. If this injustice is not corrected, it could fuel regional tensions and further divide the country.
The presidency, National Assembly, and relevant authorities must urgently address this imbalance before it escalates into a full-blown crisis. The CBN must immediately review these appointments and ensure a more equitable distribution across all regions. Anything short of this would confirm that this administration is more interested in consolidating power through institutional capture than in national unity.
A Dangerous Precedent That Must Be Stopped!
Even the Buhari Administration, often criticized for similar issues, did not allow such a stark regional favoritism within the CBN. This current level of bias is a disgrace and poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s unity. If left unchecked, it will set a dangerous precedent for other federal institutions, fostering a culture of exclusion and resentment.
Moreover, the Federal Character Commission has failed woefully in its mandate. If it cannot ensure equal representation in key national institutions, it should be scrapped without delay.
The CBN should not be a tool for regional domination; it is a national institution that must reflect the diversity, fairness, and unity of Nigeria. Anything short of this is a betrayal of national trust and a shameful abuse of power.
- Bukar Mohammed is a public analyst from Kano.
