News
RMAFC Chairman, Reaffirms Shehu Commitment To Local Government Autonomy
Joel Ajayi
The Chairman, Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has reiterated the Commission’s unwavering support for financial autonomy of Local Governments in Nigeria, stressing that grassroots governance is key to national development.
Dr. Shehu made this declaration while receiving the Director General of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Barr. Evan Enekwe, who led a delegation on a visit to the Chairman at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja today Wednesday, the 16th of April 2025.
“We have always been on record as a Commission that strongly advocates for Local Government financial autonomy,” Dr. Shehu said. “The recent Supreme Court judgment affirming this autonomy is a victory not just for ALGON but for the nation. Development truly begins at the grassroots, and without empowered local governments, our national aspirations will continue to lag.” He added.
Dr. M. B. Shehu emphasized that the Commission was re-establishing a committee of Commissioners from each state to actively engage with stakeholders and ensure smooth implementation of the new legal framework. “We will continue to advocate and talk to stakeholders to see this through,” he stated.
The Chairman further assured ALGON of the Commissio’s readiness to support its developmental agenda and grassroots-focused programmes. “The Commission will support your conference and broader objectives. We are on the side of constitutionalism, equity, and grassroots development.” He said.
In her remarks, the DG ALGON, Barr. Evan Enekwe appreciated the warm reception accorded yo them and commended the Commission’s stance on local government empowerment. She appealed for continued partnership and support for ALGON’s upcoming National Sustainable Grassroots Development Conference scheduled for April 29–30, 2025.
“Increased revenue allocation to local governments is not just necessary—it is urgent,” she stressed. “Financial autonomy and improved funding will accelerate development at the grassroots. We thank RMAFC and other progressive institutions for championing this cause.” She said.
Barr. Enekwe also emphasized ALGON’s long-standing advocacy for equitable revenue sharing. “For over 20 years, the conversation has remained the same, and it is time for real change.” she further said.
Earlier in their remarks, some RMAFC Commissioners stressed the importance of robust collaboration between the Commission and ALGON:
Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba Haruna, mni representing Kebbi state in the Commission, recalled a national policy paper she co-authored at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in 2022 on Strengthening Local Governance in Nigeria, highlighting the alignment of ALGON’s objectives with the Commission’s mandate to promote fiscal efficiency at subnational levels.
In his contribution, the Federal Commissioner representing Kwara state on the Commission, Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka lamented the weakening of local governments due to excessive state interference.
He said, “Today, most local governments exist only in theory, their powers hijacked by governors. We look forward to functional and sustainable local councils as enshrined in the constitution.”
Other members of the ALGON delegation included Salawu Nuhu Ozigi, FCA (Director of Finance and Accounts), Lawal Ibrahim (Director, Admin & Human Resources), Obiora Orji (Head of Media and Publicity), and Lateefa Isah (Principal Consultant on the Sustainable Grassroots Development Programme).
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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