RMAFC Launches New Data Template to Boost Revenue from Solid Minerals Sector

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has unveiled a new solid minerals data rendition template to strengthen monitoring, enhance transparency, and improve revenue generation from Nigeria’s mining sector.

The initiative, developed in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, was officially introduced during a one-day sensitization workshop held in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu, OFR, represented by the Chairman of the Solid Minerals Monitoring Committee, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s revenue sources in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The new data rendition template could not have come at a better time. Nigeria must urgently diversify its revenue base beyond oil, given the volatility of the global oil market and challenges such as crude theft and pipeline vandalism,” Dr. Shehu stated.

He explained that the Commission, in line with its constitutional mandate, had previously conducted nationwide solid mineral revenue monitoring exercises in 2016 and 2022, which significantly boosted revenue from the sector. However, he expressed concern that despite increased mining activities, only a small fraction of expected earnings reaches the Federation Account due to weak oversight mechanisms.

L-R: Hon. Rakiya Ayuba Tanko-Haruna (FC Kebbi State); Hon. Aruviere Egharhevwa (FC Delta State and Vice Chairman of the Committee); Hon. B B Shettima (FC Niger State and Chairman, Solid Minerals Committee); Prof. Ibrahim Garba and Hon. Prof. Steve Davies Ugbah (FC Benue State) at the Sensitization Exercise on the Implementation of a New Solid Mineral Data Rendition Template for Effective Revenue Monitoring by RMAFC.

“The Commission under my leadership will ensure that all revenues due from the mining sector are fully and promptly remitted,” he assured.

Dr. Shehu noted that the new template was designed to collect critical data such as production volumes, company details, license fees, permits, and royalties, enabling more accurate tracking of mining operations and revenues. He emphasized that its adoption would promote transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline in the sector.

Also speaking, Hon. Ibrahim Shettima, Chairman of the Solid Minerals Monitoring Committee and Federal Commissioner representing Niger State, said the sensitization exercise was aimed at bridging data gaps and ensuring timely and accurate revenue reporting across all states.

“This platform will serve as a reliable, independent source of data for the Commission and a tool for informed policy decisions,” Shettima said.

Stakeholders at the event including Engr. Imam Ganiu, Director of Mining Inspectorate at the Ministry of Solid Minerals; Engr. Obadiah Nkom, Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office; and Mr. Segun Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria commended RMAFC’s initiative. They emphasized that Nigeria could become a major player in the global mining industry if the sector is effectively regulated and supported by sound policies and stronger government-private sector collaboration.

The workshop also featured expert presentations on global and national mining trends, revenue assessment through data rendition, and the functions of key government institutions driving the sector, including the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Mining Cadastre Office.

The event concluded with a demonstration of the new data rendition template, highlighting its role in achieving accurate, timely, and transparent reporting of solid mineral revenues nationwide.