RMAFC Pledges Enhanced Funding, Staff Welfare Support for INEC Ahead of 2027 Elections
RMAFC Pledges Enhanced Funding, Staff Welfare Support for INEC Ahead of 2027 Elections
RMAFC Pledges Enhanced Funding, Staff Welfare Support for INEC Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through improved funding, enhanced staff welfare and strengthened institutional collaboration to ensure the successful conduct of the 2027 General Elections.
The Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, gave the assurance while receiving the Chairman of INEC, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Shehu disclosed that the Commission had received the communication conveying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive on the proposed remuneration package for INEC personnel, adding that RMAFC had commenced consultations with relevant stakeholders to facilitate its implementation.
According to him, a high-level meeting has been scheduled with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and other key stakeholders to discuss the implementation framework and broader issues relating to INEC’s funding and operational support.
The RMAFC Chairman said the Commission would collaborate with relevant institutions, including the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Federal Civil Service Commission, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and the National Assembly, to ensure compliance with existing laws and facilitate any statutory amendments required to improve the salary structure of INEC board members and staff.
He stressed that adequate funding and improved welfare packages are critical to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system and preserving the integrity of the country’s democratic process.
“We are committed to working with all relevant institutions to ensure that INEC receives the support required to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities. Competitive remuneration and sustainable funding are essential for retaining skilled personnel and delivering credible, free and fair elections,” Dr. Shehu stated.
Earlier, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between both institutions on issues relating to funding, remuneration and operational preparedness for the 2027 general elections.
He disclosed that the President had approved the proposed remuneration adjustments for INEC, subject to legal and regulatory compliance, adding that efforts are now focused on completing the necessary administrative and legislative processes for implementation.
Professor Amupitan also highlighted the Commission’s increasing operational responsibilities ahead of the 2027 polls, expressing concern over persistent funding constraints, the loss of experienced personnel and the impending retirement of several senior officials.
He warned that these challenges could affect the Commission’s operational efficiency if not urgently addressed.
The INEC Chairman noted that adequate financial support would be required to effectively undertake voter registration, election logistics, security coordination, result management and post-election activities, including election petition processes.
Both institutions agreed to strengthen collaboration and fast-track the legal, financial and administrative measures required to enhance INEC’s operational capacity and ensure the conduct of free, fair, transparent and credible elections in 2027.
RMAFC Pledges Enhanced Funding, Staff Welfare Support for INEC Ahead of 2027 Elections
