FG Commends Resourcefulness Of Revenue Allocation Chairman

The Federal Government has commended the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, for his proactive leadership and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal framework.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 retreat for newly inaugurated Members of the Commission held in Uyo Awka Ibom State on Monday 28th April 2025 , the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, represented by Ibrahim Natagwandu, Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Public Debt and Revenue Mobilisation, lauded the Chairman for his efforts in engaging relevant authorities to enhance the capacity of the Commission to implement its mandate.

The vice President who also praised the Commission for organising the retreat said, “I commend the leadership of the Commission for initiating this engagement, which is timely, strategic, and in alignment with our administration’s vision for fiscal prudence, equity, and sustainable development. Let me also acknowledge the commendable efforts of the Chairman of the RMAFC, who has been actively pursuing improved funding to strengthen operational capacity, enhance data-driven decision-making, and ensure the effective discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.”

In his goodwill message, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno Bassey, warmly welcomed participants to the State and praised Dr. Shehu for his visionary leadership. Governor Bassey highlighted the importance of the Commission’s work in promoting inter-governmental collaboration and described the decision to host the retreat in Akwa Ibom as a testament to the State’s commitment to national development and fiscal innovation. He assured the Commission of Akwa Ibom’s continued support in all efforts to deepen fiscal federalism and strengthen economic management across the country.

While delivering his goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Executive Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, represented by Razaq Fatai, Head of Data and Analytics, underscored the critical role of RMAFC in repositioning Nigeria’s fiscal framework amidst global economic uncertainties. He emphasized the urgent need for a new revenue allocation formula that aligns with current economic realities, stressing that “A balanced and just formula is imperative for the effective delivery of public services and the deepening of democratic dividends.”

In his address, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by Barr. Imarha Ogehnenyerowo Ruben commended the Commission’s commitment to promoting fiscal discipline, equity, and transparency. He acknowledged the legal and operational challenges faced by the RMAFC . He, therefore, gave the assurance of the Federal Ministry of Justice’s readiness to provide necessary legal guidance and support to enhance the Commission’s effectiveness. “Where there are constitutional ambiguities or statutory constraints, we stand ready to work with the Commission and the National Assembly to provide the necessary legal reforms,” he stated. Justice Fagbemi urged all participants to deliberate with openness and a strong commitment to national interest.