Following the news of the ongoing retirement of 1,000 employees of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Arewa Youth Assembly has called for adherence to federal character principles in the handling of the process.
The group, in a statement issued on Sunday, January 5, in Kaduna, raised concerns over the perceived targeting of northern employees, describing the move as “anti-North” and a threat to national unity.
The group’s speaker, Mohammed Danlami, said non-adherence to federal character principles in the 1,000 staff retirement process would be termed “grossly unethical,” unfair, and could lead to socio-economic instability in the country.
It also expressed worry that the exercise would worsen unemployment, mental health challenges, and insecurity in the country.
Danlami said, “Layoffs of this magnitude, especially in a fragile economy, have significant implications beyond numbers.
It heightens unemployment, exacerbates mental health challenges, and fuels insecurity as individuals struggle to make ends meet.”
‘CBN should publish the list of affected staff by state’
The northern youth group stressed that the employees from the northern region have often faced systemic marginalisation in the banking sector, warning that further discrimination could perpetuate the trend.
It urged the CBN to ensure equity, fairness, and transparency in the retirement process in line with the federal character principle and called for the publishing of the list of affected employees by state.
“This is not just about curiosity; it’s about accountability.
“The Federal Character Commission was established to promote fairness and unity. Any deviation from this principle will face strong resistance from us,” the group stated.
CBN should explore alternatives to lay-offs
The Arewa Youth Assembly urged the CBN to explore alternative measures instead of laying off staff, stressing that the planned job cuts portend further pressure on the economy and the affected employees.
The group’s speaker said, “Instead of layoffs, the CBN should consider retraining and reskilling workers for opportunities in emerging sectors.
“This would not only address unemployment but also foster economic growth in the long term.”
