Senate Confirms Hon Omidiran as Executive Chairman of FCC

By Anayo Akwitti
The Nigerian Senate on Thursday confirmed former federal lawmaker Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran as Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), alongside 37 commissioners representing the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The confirmations followed the adoption of a screening report presented by Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs.
Onyesoh noted that all nominees submitted the required documents and underwent thorough vetting, with no criminal petitions recorded against them.

“All nominees appeared before the committee, presenting CCB clearances, police reports, DSS vetting documents, and their CVs,” Onyesoh told the Senate.

Omidiran, a two-term member of the House of Representatives, is widely respected for her community-focused legislative record, women’s empowerment initiatives, and advocacy for equity in governance.
Analysts say her leadership is expected to restore credibility, discipline, and reform-oriented oversight at the FCC.
Among other commissioners confirmed are Peter Ogbonna Eze (Enugu State) and AbdulWasiu Kayode Bawa-Allah (Lagos State), while Mohammed Musa remains FCC Secretary.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved for the chamber to dissolve into the Committee of the Whole to consider the nominees.
Deputy Minority Leader Senator Olalere Oyewumi praised the nominees’ qualifications, stating that: “From their résumé, they have held different positions both locally and internationally, and I thank Mr President for finding them worthy for nomination.”

Following a state-by-state review with no objections, the Committee adopted the report. Senate President Godswill Akpabio then confirmed Omidiran and all 37 commissioners by voice vote.
Other confirmed commissioners include: Obinna Oriaku (Abia), Lawal Roni (Jigawa), Abubakar Bunu (Kebbi), Eludayo Eluyemi (Osun), Bema Madayi (Adamawa), Dora Ebong (Akwa-Ibom), Nnoli Gloria (Anambra), Babangida Gwana (Bauchi), Sir Tonye Okio (Bayelsa), and Solomon Dagami (FCT).

Public commentators see Omidiran’s appointment as a deliberate step to revitalise the FCC. Known for her empathy, discipline, and reformist outlook, she aims to transform the agency into a “coalition of conscience”, ensuring that equity becomes the standard, not the exception, in public service.

Her track record includes mentoring youth, promoting gender inclusion, and strengthening institutions, positioning her as a leader capable of restoring credibility to an agency critical to Nigeria’s unity and federal balance.