Federal Govt Guarantees Kogi 13% Derivation Share

The chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mohammed Bello Shehu, has stated the commission's com...

The chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mohammed Bello Shehu, has stated the commission's commitment to making sure Kogi State gets its full 13 percent derivation share after being acknowledged as an oil-producing state.

Dr. Shehu provided assurance on Tuesday during an event where he welcomed the governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, who headed a group for an interactive discussion at the commission's office, as stated by the commission. The meeting centered on ways to help the state begin receiving its constitutionally entitled derivation fund.

Reaffirming RMAFC's dedication to openness and equity, Shehu pledged to the governor that the state would be granted all funds it is legally entitled to.

Regardless of the matter you bring before us, we will do our best, within the limits of the law, to make sure Kogi State receives what it is entitled to," he stated. "Our responsibility is to ensure the state gets its fair portion of resources—be it from oil, gas, or solid minerals—and that all allocations are accurately recorded and safeguarded.

He mentioned that the commission would offer the required technical assistance to enable the state to maximize its resource advantages. "We will remain strongly behind you in providing the data, guidance, and technical support necessary to optimize these resources for the welfare of your people," he said.

To move forward, the RMAFC chairman ordered the formation of a technical committee made up of representatives from the Gas Investments and Crude Oil Divisions of RMAFC, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Kogi State administration to examine the concerns and suggest suitable remedies.

Previously, Governor Ododo expressed concern that Kogi State has not been reaping the advantages of its extensive mineral resources, even though it is officially recognized as an oil-producing state. He sought information about the present state of oil and gas operations in the region and showed belief in RMAFC's ability to resolve the problems.

The governor expressed deep gratitude for this welcoming gesture and your foresight," he stated. "We anticipate ongoing collaboration with the Commission to maximize the resources of Kogi State and ensure they serve our people effectively.

Contributing, Barr. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba-Haruna, federal commissioner from Kebbi State, highlighted that the 13 per cent derivation is a constitutional right that demands precise data to guarantee equity.

In the same way, the federal commissioner from Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, recommended that Kogi State thoroughly examine post-PIA structures to prevent potential legal or operational issues down the line.

Regarding the management of solid minerals, Dr. Udodirim Okongwu, director of the Inland Revenue Department, who spoke on behalf of the Secretary to the Commission, confirmed that RMAFC has the authority to gather all essential information for efficient oversight. She recommended that the state set up mineral purchasing centers to ensure accurate tracking of solid mineral transactions.

The Kogi State Minister of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Ashiru Asiwaju, emphasized the administration's dedication to drawing in investors by offering valuable and persuasive data to those involved in the oil and gas industry.

Additionally, assistant director and head of the NUPRC team, Ekekhide Jennifer, mentioned current production efforts at OPL 915 (now OML 155). She emphasized the importance of better security and infrastructure to draw in and keep investments within the industry.

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