By Nkechi Eze
The Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, has called for fiscal sustainability from the federal government down to the local government level.
A statement signed and made available to newsmen by the commission’s head, strategic communications, Bede Ogueri Anyanwu, disclosed that; Muruako while speaking at the ongoing 5th Edition of the National Treasury Workshop, organized by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, emphasized the importance of local governments in revenue generation.
He noted that if local governments function effectively, they can generate more revenue, recalling a time when essential services such as primary healthcare, education, and agriculture were efficiently managed at the grassroots level.
The FRC boss further advocated for more funds to be allocated to local governments, believing that direct financial support will greatly benefit citizens. He also emphasized the importance of local governments engaging with their communities to understand their needs before drafting budgets, as this would help boost internally generated revenue (IGR).
While highlighting the significance of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, which was designed to strengthen independent revenue sources, he encouraged participants to leverage Section 51 of the Act to question any lack of transparency in government activities.
Muruako commended President Bola Tinubu’s fiscal reforms, especially in tax policy, noting that these efforts will boost revenue generation for state and local governments.
The call for fiscal sustainability aligns with ongoing efforts to improve financial accountability and governance across all tiers of government in Nigeria.
Notable discussants at the workshop include:
Victor Muruako, Esq., Executive Chairman, Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Dr. Shehu, Chairman, Revenue Mobilization Allocation & Fiscal Commission (RMFAC), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, Accountant General of the Federation, Hon. Akin, Chairman, State Commissioners Forum and Commissioner for Finance, Ekiti State
These leaders engaged in in-depth discussions on revising the revenue allocation formula to enhance fiscal federalism and promote development at sub-national levels.
The workshop aims to provide actionable solutions to Nigeria’s revenue challenges while fostering transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public finance management.
