Mohammed Bello Shehu, the commission’s chairman, revealed this during a budget defense session with the House of Representatives Committee on Finance. He emphasized that the new remuneration framework targets ministers and other key political appointees. Once reviewed by the President, the proposal will head to the National Assembly for legislative approval.
Beyond salaries, Shehu shared that RMAFC is actively refining Nigeria’s revenue-sharing model among federal, state, and local governments. "We’re nearing completion on this," he assured, noting that data analysis was in its final stages. The updated formula aims to address long-standing fiscal imbalances, particularly for local governments, which Shehu described as "critically underperforming" due to state-level interference.
He praised recent presidential efforts to safeguard local governance, including threats of executive action against obstructive state governors. "The dysfunction of local councils is at the heart of Nigeria’s current challenges," Shehu stated, recalling their better performance even during military rule. He credited the finance committee for championing reforms that have elevated RMAFC’s standing, prompting unprecedented cooperation from revenue agencies like Customs and the NUPRC.
In a bold disclosure, Shehu highlighted an ongoing audit of Niger Delta oil assets—a first-of-its-kind initiative. Field teams spent months mapping remote creeks and wells, gathering data expected to trigger major revelations. "When the President receives our report, this country will feel the impact," he teased, withholding specifics to avoid premature leaks. The audit, aided by advanced tools, has already shifted power dynamics, eliminating past reliance on state governors for logistical support during inspections.
Shehu closed with gratitude to lawmakers, acknowledging their role in bolstering RMAFC’s credibility. "Your legacy is secure," he told the committee, hinting at transformative outcomes ahead.
