The increasing unemployment rates in Nigeria is giving rise to a push for the Federal Government to rethink its ban on hiring in the Federal Civil Service Commission. This push for change comes following the release of recent data showing a decrease in people actively working and a rise in unemployment, pointing out the need to fill crucial roles in various sectors. Latest findings released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed a disheartening perspective on Nigeria’s job market, showing a drastic increase in the unemployment rate to 5 percent during the third quarter of 2023.
This urgent call to boost workforce participation calls for proactive steps to rejuvenate the labor market. To address this significant challenge, the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to lift the restriction on civil service hiring. Representative Francis Waive, a prominent figure of the APC party from Delta state, strongly highlighted the negative consequences of the ongoing ban on hiring junior and mid-level staff, causing a shortage of crucial personnel. The Council of Retired Federal Permanent Secretaries (CORFEPS), voicing the sentiments of many within the civil service sector, has condemned the prolonged recruitment ban as a violation of constitutional rights.
Effects of the recruitment ban have been far-reaching.
According to Mr. Gokz Adegoroye, the forum’s Publicity Secretary, the employment embargo was deemed unjust and unconstitutional as it violates citizens’ equal right to job opportunities. He highlighted that the constitution mandates states to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals. Providing fair opportunities for all individuals to work signifies fairness across generations. It is not fair to assume that just because you hired a thousand people last year, you will not hire for the next two years. This does not align with the concept of equal access to employment, as he clarified.
Moreover, the consequences of the ban on recruitment have been far-reaching, as numerous reports of unfair hiring, favouritism, and unethical behaviour have damaged the reputation of the civil service. The prevalence of improper appointments and biased practices highlights the pressing requirement for recruitment procedures that are both transparent and based on merit. The Office of The Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, has emphasized that waivers are frequently granted to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies for key vacant positions that need to be filled. However, these recruitments are typically conducted through unfair channels and are not accessible to the general public.
Lack of new job opportunities is hindering economic growth.
Beyond the woes felt by job seekers, the ripple effects of the ban is affecting the businesses and individuals trying to succeed in Nigeria’s tough market. As public sector hiring is on hold and economic uncertainty is holding back private sector growth, it has led to reduced demand, low consumer spending, and limited chances for expansion. The lack of new job opportunities is hindering economic growth and innovation, making it harder for Nigeria to compete on the global scene. This ban was imposed under the Buhari administration in March 2020.
Dr. Chris Ngige, former Minister of Labour, stated that the embargo was a result of the COVID-19 crisis and economic challenges, highlighting the importance of re-evaluating the policy strategically. The threat of high unemployment hangs ominously over Nigeria, leading to social unrest, political dissatisfaction, and a feeling of disillusionment towards the current situation. Disillusioned young people, who are feeling increasingly marginalized due to limited job prospects, are easy targets for extremist organizations and criminal syndicates, jeopardizing the stability and safety of society. Furthermore, the ban on employment further inflames underlying conflicts and diminishes trust in governmental bodies, ultimately weakening the country’s democratic principles.
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Considering this, President Bola Tinubu needs to listen to the concerns of Nigerians and act decisively to end the job freeze amidst this growing crisis. By prioritizing the well-being and success of the country, President Tinubu has the chance to lead Nigeria towards a brighter future characterized by equitable development, advancement, and optimism. The ban on civil service recruitment in Nigeria is a moral failure that hinders citizens from achieving their goals and making a positive impact on society. With a lack of job opportunities in both the public and private sector due to government inefficiencies and unclear policies, it is crucial to prioritize lifting this ban to address this pressing issue.
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