Opinion: Politics, Connections and Public Recruitment — Why Participation Matters More Than Complaints

By Amb. Abdullahi Zaliha Ibrahim

The debate surrounding the recent Nigeria Customs Service recruitment has once again exposed the realities of politics, influence and public perception in Nigeria. While many have focused on religion and ethnicity, a closer look suggests that political participation, networking and strategic positioning often play a significant role in determining who benefits from available opportunities.

From the list circulating online, some observers noted an imbalance in the distribution of successful candidates across different communities. Whether or not such observations are entirely accurate, the conversation raises an important lesson: citizens who choose to remain disengaged from the political process may find themselves with fewer opportunities when appointments, recruitments or other benefits are shared.

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It is equally important to acknowledge that recruitment is not solely determined by religion or ethnicity. Many successful applicants earned their places through merit, while others benefited from personal or political connections. This reality is not unique to Nigeria; networking and influence remain powerful factors in many societies around the world.

Politics influences virtually every aspect of society. From leadership appointments to community development and public service opportunities, political participation often shapes outcomes. Even within families and communities, people rely on negotiation, consensus and relationships to maintain balance. Therefore, choosing to remain completely detached from politics may come at a cost.

Many of those whose names appeared on the Customs recruitment list are believed to be individuals with established political relationships and loyal service to influential leaders. Some expected that more ordinary supporters and grassroots mobilisers would benefit, but the outcome appears to favour those with stronger political networks.

There are also stories of highly qualified candidates who were unsuccessful despite having influential contacts. One example is a candidate reportedly connected to a retired Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service who still did not secure employment. Such experiences remind us that influence alone does not guarantee success and that destiny, preparation and circumstance all play their roles.

Looking across several states, different patterns have emerged in the recruitment exercise. These variations have further fuelled public debate, although no official evidence has established that recruitment was based on religion or ethnicity. What remains clear is that politics and relationships continue to influence public expectations.

Rather than spending endless time complaining about outcomes that cannot immediately be changed, citizens should focus on positioning themselves for future opportunities. Building relationships, participating constructively in politics and contributing positively to society may open doors that constant criticism cannot.

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Political leaders naturally seek to support loyal supporters and communities that stood with them during elections. While this reality may not satisfy everyone, it reflects how politics functions in many democracies across the world.

The conversation should also encourage elected representatives, community leaders and stakeholders to ensure that opportunities are distributed fairly, transparently and in a manner that strengthens public confidence in government institutions.

Ultimately, complaints alone rarely produce change. Active civic engagement, strategic participation and responsible leadership remain the most effective ways to influence future outcomes.

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As Nigeria continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, citizens should recognise that politics extends beyond election day. Participation, service, networking and constructive engagement are investments that may shape tomorrow’s opportunities.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of this publication.