RMAFC Boss Praises Governor Otti, Calls Abia Nigeria's Best-Managed State

Dr. Muhammed Shehu, the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), recently commended Governor Alex Otti for his judicious handling of Abia State's financial resources. Shehu conveyed this appreciation during a courtesy visit paid by him and other commission members to Governor Otti at his Nvosi office, located in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, on Tuesday.

Shehu highlighted Governor Otti's accomplishments as proof of his careful stewardship of state funds, specifically noting significant investments in road networks and the education sector, which have profoundly benefited Abia. He declared, “I am so glad that today I am able to make it, to see you here and to see all the developmental strides that you have taken and are still undertaking since you assumed office as the Executive Governor of this state. I wouldn’t hesitate to say that this state is blessed to have you as Governor. Every independent analyst will testify that this is the best, if not the best-governed state in Nigeria, and you are certainly the best among all those who have governed the state.”

The RMAFC chairman also acknowledged Otti’s commendable efforts in bolstering primary healthcare, ensuring fiscal transparency, and improving security across the state. He pointed out that Abia's enhanced fiscal performance and a more peaceful environment are clear indicators of responsible governance. Shehu specifically praised the state's remarkable progress, moving from the 17th to the fourth position in fiscal transparency, alongside a notable reduction in its overall debt profile.

Dr. Shehu extended his gratitude to Governor Otti for his unwavering support to the RMAFC in its mission to strengthen operations and fulfill its constitutional mandate. He particularly thanked the Governor for providing land for the construction of the commission’s new office within the state.

Furthermore, the chairman revealed that the commission is currently undergoing comprehensive reforms designed to enhance revenue monitoring, accelerate digitalization, and facilitate real-time access to crucial revenue information from various generating agencies. He added that the RMAFC is also actively working on a revised revenue allocation formula, emphasizing that the current formula, in use for several decades, no longer accurately reflects the evolving responsibilities of the three tiers of government. According to Shehu, this review is imperative because states now shoulder greater responsibilities, including expanded roles in critical areas like transportation infrastructure and other sectors traditionally managed by the Federal Government.

Shehu affirmed that measures are being implemented to ensure that funds earmarked for development are recovered, appropriately distributed, and efficiently utilized. He reiterated his appreciation to Governor Otti for allocating land for the commission's permanent office in Abia, assuring that the completed structure would adhere to RMAFC's national standards.

In his response, Governor Otti expressed the state's satisfaction with the commission's proposed reforms, voicing optimism that these changes would significantly empower states to deliver more effectively for their citizens. He stated, “We are very happy that you are doing what you are doing there. And we know that with the changes that you are proposing, and with the President supporting us, we know we can, as stated, be more empowered. If states are more empowered, they will do a lot more good for these states.”

Governor Otti further assured the RMAFC of his continuous support to ensure its success and expressed hope for the swift implementation of the proposed new revenue allocation formula, which he believes will enable states to enhance their service delivery to the populace.