RMAFC concludes revenue formula, judicial pay review

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has completed two significant reviews: the Nigeria’s Revenue Allocation Formula (RAF) and the remuneration for judicial and executive and legislative office holders. The RAF review involved consultations with all three levels of government, technical stakeholders, and other relevant institutions across Nigeria.

The commission also finalized the review of remuneration for judicial office holders, resulting in the enactment of the Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances) Act 2025. Additionally, the review of remuneration for executive and legislative office holders is progressing towards enactment of the Political and Public Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances) Act 2026.

Chairman Mohammed Bello Shehu emphasized the importance of creating a more equitable and sustainable revenue-sharing system that considers the nation's evolving economic and governance landscape. He stressed that salary increases should be accompanied by improved service delivery, stating that remuneration reforms should not be an end in themselves but should translate into better public services.

Beyond the RAF and remuneration reviews, RMAFC has intensified monitoring of oil and gas production data to ensure accurate application of the 13% derivation principle. This includes verification exercises, geospatial mapping, and collaboration with relevant agencies to resolve discrepancies in oil well attribution and ensure states receive their due revenues.

Specific interventions include reallocating 17 oil wells from Imo State to Rivers State, improving gas production reporting to benefit Enugu and Kogi states, and strengthening collaboration with various regulatory bodies. RMAFC is also addressing crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and production losses by engaging the Ministry of Defence.

The commission is exploring new revenue opportunities through partnerships with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and the National Space Research and Development Agency, leveraging satellite and geospatial technologies to identify potential sources. Shehu highlighted improvements in RMAFC's institutional infrastructure, including facility rehabilitation, enhanced security systems, and staff welfare enhancements, such as improved healthcare services and training programs.

The commission's engagement with the Nigerian Guild of Editors aimed to increase transparency and public understanding of its constitutional mandate.