FG Applauds RMAFC Chairman’s Leadership as Commission Sets Sights on Revenue Formula Review

Maryam Aminu

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

The commendation was made during the opening ceremony of the 2025 retreat for newly inaugurated Members of the Commission, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

According to a statement by Maryam Umar Yusuf, mnipr, Head of Information and Public Relations at RMAFC, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima represented by Ibrahim Natagwandu, Technical Adviser on Public Debt and Revenue Mobilisation described the retreat as timely and aligned with the administration’s vision for fiscal prudence and sustainable development.

“I commend the leadership of the Commission for initiating this engagement,” Natagwandu stated. “The Chairman’s proactive steps toward improving funding and enhancing data-driven decision-making are crucial to achieving effective service delivery.”

Also present at the ceremony, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno Bassey, praised Dr. Shehu’s visionary leadership and reaffirmed the state’s support for the Commission’s efforts to deepen fiscal federalism and economic collaboration.

In a similar vein, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq represented by Razaq Fatai, Head of Data and Analytics emphasized the need for a revised revenue allocation formula reflective of present-day economic realities. “A just and balanced formula is vital for the delivery of democratic dividends across all levels of government,” he said.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by Barr. Imarha Ogehnenyerowo Ruben, commended RMAFC’s efforts to uphold transparency and fiscal discipline.

He assured the Commission of the Ministry’s support in navigating legal reforms necessary for its effective operation.

Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, lauded the Commission for its impact across federal, state, and local governments.

He advocated for stronger legislative backing to further empower RMAFC’s initiatives.

In his address, Dr. Shehu reiterated the Commission’s commitment to reviewing the revenue allocation formula and remuneration packages for political and public office holders.

He urged all tiers of government to diversify revenue sources through sectors like agriculture, tourism, and solid minerals.

“We are custodians of the fiscal soul of the Federation,” he declared. “It is our duty to leave a legacy defined by transparency, diligence, and innovation.”

The retreat concluded with a vote of thanks by the Secretary to the Commission, Engr. Joseph Okechukwu Nwaze, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and stakeholders for their support and contributions to the dialogue on strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal governance.