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The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, stated that effective governance at the grassroots level is crucial for national development.
He pointed out that this is the reason behind the Commission's steadfast support for granting financial autonomy to local government areas in Nigeria.
Shehu made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), led by its Director-General, Barr. Evan Enekwe, at his office in Abuja.
He affirmed, “Our Commission has consistently advocated for financial autonomy for Local Governments.
The recent Supreme Court ruling supporting this autonomy is a triumph not only for ALGON but for the entire nation. True development starts at the grassroots, and without empowered local governments, our national goals will fall behind.”
The RMAFC Chairman also informed the delegates that the Commission would be re-establishing a committee of commissioners from each state to actively engage with stakeholders and ensure the effective execution of the new legal framework.
He assured ALGON of the Commission’s commitment to backing its developmental initiatives and grassroots-focused projects, stating, “The Commission will support your conference and broader goals,” and added, “We are committed to constitutionalism, equity, and grassroots development.”
Earlier, Enekwe praised the Commission for its supportive stance on empowering local governments, requesting ongoing collaboration and backing for ALGON’s upcoming National Sustainable Grassroots Development Conference scheduled for April 29-30, 2025.
“Increasing revenue allocation to local governments is not just necessary; it is urgent,” she emphasized, noting, “Financial autonomy and enhanced funding will boost development at the grassroots level. We appreciate RMAFC and other progressive entities for advocating this cause.”
Enekwe further highlighted ALGON’s long-term push for equitable revenue sharing. “For over 20 years, this conversation has remained unchanged, and it’s time for genuine transformation,” she added.
Several RMAFC Commissioners present at the meeting underlined the need for strong collaboration between the Commission and ALGON.
Furthermore, Ismail Mohammed Agaka, the Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State on the Commission, expressed concern over the diminishing power of local governments due to excessive interference from state authorities.
He remarked, “Today, most local governments exist merely on paper, as their powers have been usurped by governors. We eagerly anticipate functional and sustainable local councils as outlined in the constitution.”
