By Solomon OKPO
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has made a passionate appeal to the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) for an upward review of revenue allocations to states, emphasizing the need for enhanced fiscal capacity to drive sustainable development.
Speaking at the opening session of the RMAFC retreat on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo, Governor Eno underscored the strategic importance of the Commission in equitable distribution of national resources and applauded its role in fostering fiscal balance across the federation.
“It is a privilege to host you in our State,” he said. “Akwa Ibom supports this retreat because RMAFC belongs not only to the federal government but to the states and local governments. You are for all of us.”
Governor Eno highlighted that in his nearly two years in office, his administration has executed numerous infrastructure projects without resorting to bank loans, demonstrating financial discipline and commitment to development through the ARISE Agenda, which targets Agriculture, Rural development, Infrastructure, Security, and Education.
He urged RMAFC delegates to visit project sites across the State’s ten federal constituencies to gain firsthand insight into the impact of government efforts and further justify increased allocations.
In addition, the Governor called for a review of the computation methods used in remitting oil revenue, particularly the 13% derivation fund due to oil-producing states. “As the goose that lays the golden egg, we should not be left to suffer,” he emphasized.
Governor Eno also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for bold economic reforms, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy, which, despite initial hardships, has increased allocations to sub-national governments and boosted development efforts.
He acknowledged the contributions of Akwa Ibom’s representative in RMAFC, Barr. Imoh Akpan, and encouraged continued collaboration and dedication among Commission members.
