The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has commenced the official mapping of coordinates for disputed and newly drilled oil and gas wells across producing states.
This technical exercise is designed to ensure that mineral resource revenue is distributed equitably, ensuring every state receives its rightful allocation in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.
Speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the Inter-Agency Technical Committee (IATC) in Abuja, RMAFC Chairman Dr. Mohammed Shehu emphasized that the initiative is a constitutional requirement.
He specifically cited Paragraph 32(a), Part I of the Third Schedule, which mandates the commission to monitor and oversee revenue accruals.
He said the exercise is also in response to petitions by governors of Anambra, Delta, Imo, Edo, Ondo, and Rivers seeking to establish ownership and territorial boundaries of specific oil and gas assets.
“The inauguration of the Inter-Agency Technical Committee (IATC) reaffirms our commitment to accurately identify the locations of crude oil and gas fields and wells within disputed areas,” Shehu said.
Persecondnews reports that the IATC comprises RMAFC, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation, and the National Boundary Commission.
He added: “It is in respect of this development that i urge the representative of the affected oil producing states to actively participate while plotting the verified coordinates, so that the outcome would be acceptable to all.
“I want to assure the affected parties that the commission will be an unbiased umpire and will deploy justice, equity, and fairness for which it is known for.”
Shehu said the goal is to ensure fair and transparent allocation of oil revenue, addressing long-standing disputes over ownership and location of energy assets.
“This initiative is essential to ensure that every oil and gas producing state receives its rightful share of resources, reducing tension and safeguarding the integrity of the federation account,” Shehu emphasized.
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