RMAFC CHAIRMAN REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR OIL AND GAS HOST COMMUNITIES
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has restated the Commission’s commitment to ensuring fair and transparent benefits for Nigeria’s oil and gas host communities.
Speaking while receiving the leadership of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON), led by Prince Michael Emuh, in Abuja on November 11, 2025, Dr. Shehu praised the group’s peaceful and consultative approach in addressing issues of equity and environmental justice. He stressed that peace in host communities remains vital for sustained oil and gas production.
Dr. Shehu assured that the Commission would review HOSCON’s position paper and engage stakeholders to create a sustainable and transparent framework for managing the 13% derivation fund.
Prince Emuh thanked the Commission for its openness, describing the meeting as a “new dawn” for long-marginalized communities that contribute immensely to Nigeria’s wealth.
Other RMAFC Commissioners commended HOSCON’s efforts and emphasized collaboration, transparency, and legal reforms to ensure the 13% derivation fund benefits the grassroots.
RMAFC officials reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to fairness and urged host communities to remain committed to dialogue and institutional engagement for lasting development.