Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has called on the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to support the state’s sustainable development by ensuring a fairer share of revenue from the Federation Account.
Oyebanji made the call on Monday in Ado-Ekiti when he received a delegation from the Commission led by Federal Commissioner Hon. Wumi Ogunlola. He said past efforts by the Commission had not yielded the desired results for Ekiti, but expressed hope that the current review would give the state a better deal and improve its position on the revenue ladder.
The governor acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to strengthen the financial standing of subnational governments. He commended the President for taking bold steps to reposition the economy and for being intentional about giving states the fiscal space to function effectively.
Oyebanji assured the Commission of his administration’s continued support, noting RMAFC’s strategic role in ensuring fairness in revenue allocation. He urged the team to visit ongoing projects in the state to better understand the “Shared Prosperity” agenda and see why increased support is needed.
“We have a President who is intentional about allowing subnationals to breathe, and on that basis, we will give you all the necessary support,” Oyebanji said. “That’s why I’ve invited ministries that interface with you. I hope this marks a new beginning in our relationship with RMAFC. I have absolute confidence in your ability to do what is right.
“Please go out and see what we’ve done. You’ll understand why we need help. On the revenue ladder, we’re either last or second to last. But more than moving up, we just want to be treated fairly—as a subnational that contributes its quota to national development.”
Speaking earlier, Hon. Ogunlola said the team was in Ekiti to validate the accuracy of data that would inform revenue distribution across the federation. She explained that the allocation system is built on indices meant to ensure fairness, equity, and justice, and must evolve with population changes, infrastructure growth, and shifting developmental needs.
She said the team would work with state ministries, departments, and agencies to verify data that reflects on-the-ground realities. Ogunlola requested the state’s assistance in providing access to records, appointing liaison officers, facilitating access to local government areas, and ensuring a conducive environment for the exercise.
She assured the state government of the team’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and objectivity, adding that members had been trained to carry out the assignment to national and international standards.
The meeting was attended by Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff Mr. Niyi Adebayo, Commissioner for Health and Human Services Dr. Oyebanji Filani, Commissioner for Education Dr. Bimpe Aderiye, Commissioner for Local Government Affairs Chief Folorunso Olabode, Executive Chairman of the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service Mr. Olaniran Olatona, and Special Adviser on Media Mr. Yinka Oyebode.
–
