GONET Calls on National Assembly to Fast-Track RMAFC Amendment Bill

By Segun Awofadeji, Gombe

The Gombe Network of Civil Society (GONET) has called on the National Assembly to accelerate the passage of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) Amendment Bill, stressing its importance for effective fiscal governance in Nigeria.

The appeal was made in a communiqué issued following a one-day policy dialogue held in Gombe State, themed “Towards Nigeria’s Effective Fiscal Management: Issues, Prospects, and Constraints.” The event brought together stakeholders to assess the challenges facing the RMAFC and chart a path for reform.

GONET described the RMAFC as a vital institution in Nigeria’s governance structure, responsible for monitoring revenue collection, allocating funds among the three tiers of government, and determining the remuneration of public officials. However, the group noted that the Commission’s ability to fulfill its constitutional mandate has been weakened by outdated legislation, insufficient funding, and limited regulatory powers.

“The RMAFC currently lacks the financial autonomy and operational flexibility needed to function effectively,” the communiqué stated. “This has significantly hampered its ability to address revenue leakages and provide oversight in the management of public resources.”

Signed by GONET Chairman, Ambassador Ibrahim Yusuf, and Secretary, Dr. Benjamin Maina, the communiqué emphasized that the proposed amendment bill—currently before the National Assembly—seeks to modernize the Commission’s legal framework and empower it to operate with greater independence.

The bill aims to revise the existing RMAFC Act, CAP R7 LFN 2004, aligning it with the provisions of the amended 1999 Constitution. Key amendments include granting the Commission enforcement powers to monitor revenue inflows and disbursements from the Federation Account, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability.

GONET urged federal lawmakers and the executive arm of government to prioritize the bill’s passage, highlighting its potential to transform Nigeria’s fiscal management landscape. The group also called on state governors to support the legislation by engaging their representatives in the National Assembly.

“We are confident that if this bill is passed and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it will strengthen the Commission’s capacity to deliver on its mandate, curb financial leakages, and improve resource allocation across the federation,” the communiqué concluded.

GONET further noted that empowering the RMAFC aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda and will play a key role in advancing fiscal discipline, transparency, and national development.