The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Muhammed Shehu, has declared Abia as the best-governed state in Nigeria, commending Governor Alex Otti for prudent management of resources and visible developmental strides.
Shehu made the declaration on Tuesday when he led members of the Commission on a courtesy visit to Governor Otti at his Nvosi office in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
“Abia Is Blessed to Have You”
The RMAFC boss said he was impressed by what he saw on ground in Abia, particularly in road infrastructure, education, primary healthcare, security and fiscal transparency.
“I am so glad that today I am able to make it, to see you here and to see all the developmental strides that you have taken and are still undertaking since you assumed office,” Shehu said.
“I wouldn’t hesitate to say that this state is blessed to have you as Governor. Every independent analyst will testify that this is the best, if not the best-governed state in Nigeria, and you are certainly the best among all those who have governed the state.”
He specifically cited:
– Massive road reconstruction across Aba and Umuahia
– Investments in education and primary healthcare
– Improved security and peaceful environment
– Fiscal transparency: Abia moved from 17th to 4th position
– Significant reduction in debt profile.
New Revenue Formula Coming — RMAFC
Shehu disclosed that the Commission is undergoing major reforms to strengthen revenue monitoring, enhance digitalisation and provide real-time access to revenue information from generating agencies.
Crucially, he said RMAFC is working on a *new revenue allocation formula*, noting that the existing formula has been in use for decades and no longer reflects realities.
“States now have greater responsibilities, including expanded roles in areas such as transportation infrastructure and other sectors previously dominated by the Federal Government,” he explained.
He added that steps are being taken to ensure that funds meant for development are recovered and appropriately distributed and utilised.
Shehu also thanked Governor Otti for granting RMAFC land for its permanent office in Abia, promising that the building will meet the Commission’s national standard when completed.
Otti: Empower States to Do More
Responding, Governor Otti said Abia is pleased with the proposed reforms and expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu’s support will make them a reality.
“We are very happy that you are doing what you are doing there. And we know that with the changes that you are proposing, and with the President supporting us, we know we can, as stated, be more empowered.”
“If states are more empowered, they will do a lot more good for these states,” Otti said.
The Governor reassured RMAFC of his administration’s continued support and expressed hope that the new revenue formula will be implemented soon to allow states deliver more dividends.
The visit comes amid growing national commendation for Abia’s turnaround under Otti, from infrastructure to financial discipline.
