By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria, May 7, 2026 (Series News Online) - The Kebbi State Government has expressed its readiness to collaborate fully with the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, as the agency rolls out a nationwide data verification initiative designed to enhance the country’s revenue sharing framework.
The assurance was conveyed by Governor Nasir Idris through his deputy, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, during a courtesy visit by RMAFC representatives and members of the Federation Account Allocation Committee Joint Working Group in Birnin Kebbi.
In his remarks, the governor highlighted the critical role of credible data in promoting fairness in the allocation of national resources. “Kebbi State acknowledges that accurate and dependable data are vital to ensuring an equitable distribution of revenue to both state and local governments,” he said.
Senator Tafida conveyed the governor’s apology for his absence, noting that official duties had taken him to Abuja. He stated that directives had already been issued to all concerned institutions to assist the delegation. “The Ministry of Finance, the Board of Internal Revenue, commissioners, local government chairmen, and heads of MDAs have been tasked with providing the necessary cooperation to ensure the exercise proceeds without hindrance,” he explained.
The deputy governor emphasized that the success of the verification process would yield direct benefits for Kebbi. “The integrity of data is key to securing appropriate allocations that can drive development projects and improve public service delivery in the state,” he noted.
He further pledged prompt provision of all documents required for the exercise. “We are committed to making all relevant records and information available without delay so that the team can conclude its work efficiently,” he said.
Senator Tafida also disclosed that the state would grant the commission a plot of land for the establishment of its office in Kebbi, in response to the request made by the delegation.
In his address, the head of the RMAFC delegation, Professor Olusegun Adekunle Wright, said the nationwide verification was a constitutional responsibility aimed at reviewing and updating the data underpinning revenue allocation across the federation.
“The 1999 Constitution mandates RMAFC to regularly assess and adjust the revenue allocation formula to reflect current socio-economic realities,” Professor Wright stated.
He observed that demographic changes, infrastructural growth, and new developmental demands necessitate periodic data reviews. “Regular verification is crucial to maintaining fairness, equity, and justice in the allocation of the nation’s resources,” he said.
Professor Wright lauded Governor Idris for the hospitality extended to the commission’s team since their arrival in the state. He also commended the host commissioner, Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba, and recognized the effective collaboration between RMAFC and various state institutions.
He called on all stakeholders to remain actively involved throughout the process. “We appeal to all departments and officials to sustain their cooperation so that Kebbi State can fully benefit from revenue derivation opportunities,” he urged.
The professor reaffirmed RMAFC’s dedication to due process and impartiality. “Our field teams have been carefully trained to carry out this assignment with the highest level of professionalism and integrity,” he assured.
Also addressing the gathering, RMAFC Commissioner Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba expressed gratitude to Governor Idris for the consistent support the commission has received during its visits to Kebbi. “I consider Kebbi my home state, and I value the strong partnership that exists between the commission and the state government,” she said.
Hon. Rakiya requested the state’s assistance in providing land for an RMAFC office in Kebbi. “Establishing a permanent office here will enhance our collaboration and boost operational effectiveness,” she said.
She concluded by reaffirming the commission’s resolve to partner with Kebbi State in promoting its fiscal and developmental priorities.
Tags
Collaboration