Paragraph 1: Introduction and Mandate
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), a vital organ of the Nigerian Federal Government, has initiated a critical verification exercise focusing on disputed and newly discovered oil and gas fields within the Niger Delta region. This initiative stems from the RMAFC’s constitutional mandate to monitor revenue accruals and disbursements from the Federation Account, as stipulated in Paragraph 32(a), Part 1 of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). This responsibility underscores the Commission’s crucial role in ensuring equitable revenue allocation among the federating states, particularly concerning derivation funds tied to oil and gas production.
Paragraph 2: Genesis of the Verification Exercise
The impetus for this verification drive arose from formal complaints lodged by several state governors, including those of Anambra, Imo, and Delta. These concerns primarily revolve around the ownership and boundary delineations of specific oil and gas assets, particularly the Aneize oil field within Oil Mining Lease (OML) 143, as well as the Eyine and Ameshi fields. These disputes highlight the complexities of resource ownership in a region characterized by intricate geographical features and overlapping territorial claims. The RMAFC’s intervention aims to provide clarity and resolution to these contentious issues, ensuring fairness and transparency in revenue allocation.
Paragraph 3: Composition and Methodology of the Inter-Agency Technical Committee
To effectively address these complex issues, the RMAFC has established an Inter-Agency Technical Committee, bringing together expertise from various relevant government bodies. This committee includes representatives from the RMAFC itself, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation, and the Office of the National Boundary Commission. This multi-agency approach ensures a comprehensive and technically sound assessment of the disputed fields. The committee will leverage geospatial data provided by the NUPRC, rigorously validating and plotting coordinates while allowing Surveyor-Generals from the affected states to observe the process, fostering transparency and building trust.
Paragraph 4: Scope and Objectives of the Verification Exercise
The verification exercise will encompass a comprehensive assessment of disputed fields across several states in the Niger Delta region, including Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Ondo, Edo, and Delta states. This broad scope reflects the widespread nature of the boundary and ownership disputes. The primary objective is to accurately identify and map the coordinates of both established and newly drilled oil and gas fields and wells, using data spanning from 2017 to the present. This meticulous data collection and analysis will form the basis for a fair and transparent allocation of the 13% derivation fund, a constitutionally mandated allocation to oil-producing states.
Paragraph 5: Significance and Long-Term Implications
The RMAFC’s initiative carries profound significance for the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole. By accurately determining the ownership of oil and gas assets, the Commission aims to not only resolve long-standing disputes but also prevent future conflicts. This proactive approach fosters trust among the states and strengthens the Federation Account’s integrity. Furthermore, equitable distribution of derivation funds empowers oil-producing states to invest in development projects, potentially alleviating the socio-economic challenges prevalent in the region and fostering peace and stability.
Paragraph 6: Promoting Fairness, Transparency, and Stability
Ultimately, the RMAFC’s verification exercise represents a significant stride towards fostering greater fairness and transparency in the management of Nigeria’s oil and gas resources. By leveraging advanced technology and fostering inter-agency collaboration, the Commission is building a robust framework for resolving complex boundary disputes. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the foundation for a more stable and equitable future for the Niger Delta region, ensuring that all stakeholders receive their rightful share of the nation’s oil wealth and promoting sustainable development in the affected communities.
