RMAFC urges states to replicate Lagos feat in IGR

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission has called on other states of the Federation to imitate best practices to replicate the feat of Lagos State in internally generated revenue records.

The RMAFC directed the call to other states during a research visit by the Commission to Lagos House, Ikeja on Tuesday.

During the visit, the State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, reiterated that the state achieved a significant milestone in IGR, increasing it by 70 per cent over the past five years.

Oluyomi highlighted the state’s initiatives, including Revenue Courts, ICT-led payments and collections, and the newly launched Lagos Revenue Platform.

Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State and member of the Mobilisation and Diversification Committee of RMAFC, Alhaji Ismail Agaka, who led the delegation, lauded Lagos State’s financial strength and fiscal economy.

He acknowledged Lagos State’s economic growth, citing its increased Gross Domestic Product from 27 trillion to 41 trillion in five years, and the RMAFC’s desire to learn from its best practices to advise other states.

“Lagos is a trailblazer when it comes to financial strength and also the fiscal economy. So that’s why we’re here,” he said.

Agaka emphasised the commission’s objective to collaborate with Lagos State and identify areas where it has shown exceptional performance.

“We know there are areas where Lagos State has really shown itself to be a trailblazer. So based on what we know, vis-a-vis what is now present, to be able to come to a conclusion as to how well Lagos is faring,” he said.

Agaka highlighted the importance of learning from Lagos State’s best practices to advise other states.

“When we talk about best practices, it’s to see what is working very well here, so as to advise others that look. Make Lagos State a role model for you in this specific area,” he said.

Remarking, Lagos Finance Commissioner said, “We are grateful for the support and collaboration of our partners at the federal level, which has enabled us to achieve this feat. IGR is the mainstay of Lagos, and we remain committed to driving revenue growth through innovative initiatives.

“We have found a strategic ally in RMAFC and are excited to showcase our projects, which will catalyze transformation and enhance the quality of life for our citizens.”

The commissioner emphasised the importance of teamwork and commended the RMAFC team for their commitment to supporting IGR growth in Lagos State.

“We look forward to fruitful discussions and meaningful engagement to bring our shared vision to fruition,” he said.

He also added that Lagos State is set to transform its financial landscape by reducing reliance on federal allocations, focusing on strategic capacity building, and leveraging funding from international and federal sources.

Oluyomi explained, “The reason why this committee was put together as part of RAMFAC is to go from state to state, to help them on how they can diversify their base so that they will not depend entirely on federal allocation.”

Furthermore, Oluyomi addressed the challenge of high interest rates on loans from commercial banks, which hinder business growth.

He asserted that RAMFAC’s support helps secure loans with lower interest rates, which are crucial for stimulating development.

“The moment we have that funding, that funding can catalyze our people, it can catalyze a lot of businesses,” he said.