By Kolawole Ojebisi
The Federal Government has directed the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission to sanction all revenue-generating agencies that fail to comply with collection and remittance laws.
This directive was given by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
The SGF spoke on Tuesday in Abuja during the Inaugural Plenary Session, following the swearing-in of newly appointed RMAFC commissioners.
He emphasised that the commission must enhance non-oil revenue mobilisation and prioritise revenue generation from solid minerals, taxation, and other non-oil sectors to reduce dependence on crude oil.
“I wish to state categorically that the government expects key deliverables from the commission, particularly in revenue monitoring and accountability.
“All revenue-generating agencies must comply with collection and remittance laws. Leakages must be blocked, and defaulters must be sanctioned.
“The commission must also fast-track the review of the revenue allocation formula, which has not been revised in over two decades. A new, equitable formula is critical for national economic stability and development.
“Additionally, the commission should support the government’s fiscal policies and align its strategies with the administration’s economic transformation agenda to create a robust and self-sustaining revenue framework,” he stated.
The SGF underscored the need for collaboration with key stakeholders, including the National Assembly, to ensure a harmonised approach to revenue administration.
He highlighted recent fiscal reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, exchange rate unification, and ongoing tax reforms, noting that these policies could only succeed if the RMAFC fully committed to their implementation.
Akume described the occasion as a significant step towards fostering fiscal sustainability, revenue collection, and remittance efficiency, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration.
Congratulating the newly inaugurated commissioners, he stressed that their role in shaping the country’s economic and fiscal trajectory was pivotal.
