The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through improved funding, enhanced staff welfare, and robust institutional collaboration to ensure the successful conduct of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking while receiving the Chairman of INEC, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Dr. Shehu disclosed that RMAFC had received the official communication conveying the President’s directives regarding the remuneration package of the electoral body.
Dr. Shehu stated that RMAFC would intensify its consultations with key stakeholders to facilitate the implementation of the approval.
He announced that a high-level follow-up meeting has been scheduled with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and other critical stakeholders to deliberate on the implementation framework and broader operational support for INEC.
Dr. Shehu assured the INEC leadership that RMAFC is working in collaboration with relevant agencies, including the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Federal Civil Service Commission, the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and the National Assembly, to ensure compliance with extant laws and facilitate any necessary statutory amendments to improve the salary structure of the INEC board and its personnel.
He further emphasized that adequate funding and improved staff welfare remain indispensable to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system and safeguarding the integrity of the country’s democratic process.
He noted that competitive remuneration and sustainable funding are essential for retaining skilled personnel and delivering credible, free, and fair elections.
Earlier in the meeting, Professor Amupitan explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between both institutions on critical issues relating to funding, remuneration, and operational preparedness for the forthcoming elections.
He informed the commission that the President had approved the remuneration adjustments proposed for INEC, subject to legal and regulatory compliance, adding that the focus is now on completing the necessary administrative and legislative procedures.
Professor Amupitan highlighted the massive operational responsibilities facing the electoral body ahead of the 2027 elections.
He expressed concern over persistent funding challenges, the migration of experienced personnel, and the imminent retirement of several senior officials, warning that these developments could adversely affect the commission’s operational efficiency if not urgently addressed.
He stressed that adequate financial support is required to successfully undertake voter registration, election logistics, security coordination, result management, and post-election activities, including election petitions and litigation.