By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in the successful implementation of the 2026 National Data Verification Exercise.
The Governor gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving the RMAFC delegation, led by the Commissioner representing Ogun State and Team Lead, Mr. Akeem Amosun, at the Government House in Lokoja.
Governor Ododo described the nationwide exercise as timely and strategic, noting that it aligns with the constitutional mandate of the Commission under Paragraph 32(b), Part I of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the Commission to periodically review the revenue allocation formula in line with prevailing realities.
Governor Ododo explained that the verification of public primary and secondary schools, healthcare facilities and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) data goes beyond statistical documentation, stressing that reliable data remains the foundation for evidence-based planning, equitable resource allocation and sustainable national development.
He disclosed that all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as the 21 Local Government Councils, have been directed to provide the necessary support, documentation and access required for the successful conduct of the exercise.
Governor Ododo assured the Commission of the state’s commitment to ensuring that the verification process is seamless, transparent and credible.
He commended RMAFC for embarking on the nationwide verification, expressing confidence that the outcome would strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal federalism, promote equity among the federating units and improve confidence in the nation’s revenue allocation system.
The Governor also urged all stakeholders to cooperate fully with the verification teams by providing accurate and timely information, emphasizing that the credibility of the exercise depends on professionalism, transparency and collective commitment.
Governor Ododo further appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering commitment to institutional reforms, fiscal sustainability and strengthening the nation’s economy through policies that promote transparency and accountability.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, represented by the Team Lead and Commissioner representing Ogun State, Mr. Akeem Amosun, said Kogi State is among the North-Central states participating in the ongoing nationwide verification exercise following its successful completion in other geopolitical zones.
He explained that the exercise became necessary because the last nationwide data verification was conducted about ten years ago, while significant socio-economic and infrastructural developments have taken place across states and local government areas.
According to him, the Commission requires current, accurate and verifiable data to support the ongoing review of the revenue allocation formula and ensure statutory allocations reflect present-day realities.
He congratulated Governor Ododo on the developmental strides recorded in road infrastructure, agriculture, security and human capital development, noting that the achievements reflect the administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people.
The Team Lead disclosed that the Commission has digitalised its data collection process and that the verification team will work closely with state ministries, departments, agencies and local government councils to ensure accurate and credible data collection.
Also speaking, the Kogi State Commissioner representing the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Abdelaziz Idris King, welcomed the delegation to the state and assured them of the government’s continued cooperation throughout the exercise.
He highlighted Governor Ododo’s achievements in security, infrastructure development, youth inclusion and women empowerment, noting that Kogi has remained one of the safest states in the country due to strategic investments in security technology and other proactive measures.
Abdelaziz Idris King reiterated that the nationwide data verification exercise is a critical national assignment and assured the Commission that Kogi State would continue to provide the necessary support and enabling environment to ensure the successful completion of the exercise.
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