The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr Muhammed Shehu, has commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti for what he described as prudent management of the state’s resources.

Shehu spoke on Tuesday when he led members of the commission on a courtesy visit to Governor Otti at his office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State.

The RMAFC chairman said the governor’s administration had recorded notable developments, particularly in road infrastructure and education, which he said had made a significant impact across the state.

Reflecting on the governor’s performance since assuming office, Shehu described Abia as fortunate to have Otti as its governor and said independent analysts could attest to the state’s level of development under his administration.

“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 said.

Shehu also highlighted the administration’s efforts in primary healthcare, fiscal transparency and security. He linked the state’s improved fiscal performance and peaceful environment to what he described as responsible governance.

He specifically pointed to Abia’s movement from 17th to fourth position in fiscal transparency and the reduction in the state’s debt profile as notable developments.

The RMAFC chairman thanked Otti for supporting the commission in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities, particularly by providing land for the construction of its permanent office in Abia.

According to Shehu, the commission is currently implementing reforms aimed at improving revenue monitoring, expanding digital systems and providing real-time access to revenue information from revenue-generating agencies.

He also disclosed that RMAFC was working on a new revenue allocation formula to replace the existing arrangement, which he said had been in use for several decades.

Shehu explained that changing responsibilities among the three tiers of government had made a review necessary, particularly as states now have expanded responsibilities in areas such as transportation infrastructure and other sectors that were previously largely handled by the Federal Government.

He said the commission was also taking steps to ensure that funds meant for development were recovered, properly allocated and effectively utilised.

On the proposed permanent office in Abia, Shehu expressed appreciation to Otti for providing the land and assured the governor that the completed building would meet the commission’s standard for its offices nationwide.

Responding, Governor Otti welcomed the reforms being proposed by RMAFC, saying a more effective revenue allocation system could give states greater capacity to meet the needs of their people.

“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,” Otti said.

The governor added, “If states are more empowered, they will do a lot more good for these states.”

Otti also assured the commission of his administration’s continued support and expressed hope that the proposed revenue allocation formula would be implemented soon to enable states to take on greater responsibilities and deliver more services to their citizens.