RMAFC Pushes Remuneration Review for Retired Perm Secs

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to giving fair consideration to the review of remuneration for all categories of political and public office holders.

Dr. Shehu gave the assurance when he received a delegation from the Council of Retired Permanent Secretaries at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The delegation was led by the Council’s National Vice Chairman, Elder Akin Arikawe, OON, and included members Mallam Sabiu Zakari; Jeff Nwosu, OON; and Silas Ayuba.

Describing the retired permanent secretaries as “one of the pillars upon which Nigeria’s public service has been built,” Dr. Shehu commended their contributions to policy formulation and national development. “Nothing can replace the experience of an experienced public servant. You are still relevant in shaping policy and advising government on intricate national issues,” he said.

He disclosed that the Commission had concluded its review exercise, noting that “substantial parts of the issues canvassed by the retired Permanent Secretaries have been captured and forwarded to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for consideration.”

“We have carefully considered your case within our constitutional mandate and submitted our recommendations. We remain fully supportive of initiatives that will ensure retired Permanent Secretaries live dignified lives after years of meritorious service,” Dr. Shehu added.

Earlier, Elder Arikawe said the visit was to strengthen collaboration with RMAFC and appreciate its attention to issues affecting retired permanent secretaries. He said the Council, with its motto “Continuous Improvement,” was set up to deploy the experience of retired permanent secretaries to support government through policy advice, institutional memory and constructive engagement.

Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka and Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba Haruna, mni, Federal Commissioners representing Kwara and Kebbi States respectively, described the Council members as distinguished administrators whose institutional knowledge continues to benefit Nigeria’s economic and governance policies. They urged the Council to keep mentoring younger public servants and supporting reforms.

Dr. U.K. Umar, mni, Director of Allocation Department and Overseeing Director of the Fiscal Efficiency Department, told the delegation that work had commenced on the issues raised. He said consultations were ongoing to review the existing legal framework and address the Council’s requests in line with the Commission’s recommendations and extant laws.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration to strengthen Nigeria’s public service, preserve institutional memory and promote good governance.