By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Concerned Plateau Youths on the Marginalisation of Plateau Indigenes in Appointments into Federal Institutions Located in the State have expressed concern over what they described as the longstanding underrepresentation of Plateau indigenes in leadership positions of key Federal Government institutions situated in Plateau State.
Addressing journalists on Friday at the NUJ Press Centre in Jos, the Convener of the group, Mr. Nanla Nanzing, said the situation, particularly in federal institutions located in Jos and Vom, has become a source of growing concern among the people of the state.
According to him, the development runs contrary to the constitutional provisions on Federal Character and the principles of fairness, equity and inclusiveness in public appointments.
Nanzing noted that concerns over the apparent imbalance are not new, recalling that the Plateau Youth Council, through its Chairman, formally petitioned the Chairman of the Federal Character Commission on March 25, 2025, seeking intervention over what it described as persistent injustice in the leadership composition of federal institutions within Plateau State.
He explained that one of the institutions highlighted in the correspondence was the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom.
“The letter conveyed the concerns of the peace-loving youths of Plateau State and sought the intervention of the Commission in addressing the issue.
“Regrettably, despite the significance of the concerns raised and the passage of time since the communication was made, no meaningful action or response has been forthcoming.
“This silence has only deepened the concerns of the people and underscores the need for renewed advocacy and public engagement on the matter,” he said.
The group listed several federal institutions in the state and their current heads, including: National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom – headed by Dr. Nick Nwankpa, Acting Director-General/Chief Executive Officer.
Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology, Vom – headed by Dr. Chukwu O. Chukwu, Provost.
Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Vom – headed by Dr. Mrs. C.C. Iheukwumere-Ojemudia, Acting Provost.
Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology (FCMLST), Jos – headed by Prof. Sunday Nkereuwem.
University of Jos – headed by Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice-Chancellor.
Industrial Training Fund (ITF) – headed by Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin, Director-General.
Federal College of Forestry, Jos – headed by Dr. Sunday S. Mailumo, Provost.
National Centre for Remote Sensing, Jos – headed by Dr. David Nyomo Jeb.
National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru – headed by Professor Ayo Omotayo.
NTA College, Jos – headed by Mrs. Pauline Suleiman.
While acknowledging the qualifications and contributions of the individuals currently occupying the offices, Nanzing said the cumulative effect of the appointments has created a perception among many Plateau citizens that they are being systematically excluded from leadership opportunities in institutions located on their ancestral land.
The group called on relevant anti-corruption agencies, oversight bodies and federal authorities to investigate allegations relating to appointment processes and the alleged disposal of government assets where necessary.
“We call on the relevant agencies to investigate these claims thoroughly, transparently and without prejudice.
“Anyone found culpable should be held accountable in accordance with the law, while those found innocent should be duly exonerated,” he stated.
The youths also noted that the tenure of the current Provost of the Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology, Vom, Dr. Chukwu O. Chukwu, is expected to expire soon.
They urged the Federal Government to ensure that the succession process is transparent, competitive and in strict compliance with the principles of merit, fairness and Federal Character.
The group further appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, to review the pattern of appointments in federal institutions located in Plateau State and ensure greater inclusiveness in future appointments.
They also called on the Federal Character Commission to investigate concerns regarding the representation of Plateau indigenes in federal institutions within the state and make appropriate recommendations.
In addition, they urged the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, relevant ministers and heads of federal agencies to ensure strict compliance with constitutional provisions on Federal Character and equitable representation.
Nanzing further appealed to the Federal Government to consider qualified and competent sons and daughters of Plateau State for leadership positions in federal institutions situated within the state, while maintaining the highest standards of merit and professionalism.
