Mohammed Shehu, the chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, has charged newly appointed members of the commission to exude diligence and patriotism in the discharge of their duties.

Mr Shehu made the call on Tuesday at the ongoing three-day retreat for new RMAFC members in Uyo.

He urged the new members to see their appointments as not only a call to service but also a period to demonstrate integrity, patriotism and excellence.

The RMAFC chair said the retreat was designed to equip the members with the operations and responsibilities of the commission.

 “The retreat is also aimed at preparing the members to deliver on the commission’s mandate and contribute effectively to nation-building,” he said.

According to him, the officers should work to achieve improved performance and innovative strategies capable of redefining Nigeria’s fiscal future.

Mr Shehu said RMAFC was committed to promoting diversification to enhance the nation’s economic prosperity.

“The commission has been preaching the gospel of diversification; all tiers of government should encourage investment in agriculture, tourism and solid minerals, among others.

“By doing so, we will help to meet the increasing expenditure that is a requirement for governance and development,” he said.

The RMAFC chair also said that the commission had commenced the process of reconciliation and verification of revenue collections by the collecting agencies.

“Our role is pivotal to ensuring that fiscal federalism is not just a constitutional ideal but a living, functional mechanism for unity and development,” he said. 

(NAN)