RMAFC Chairman Mohammed Shehu disclosed that the President currently earns N1.5 million monthly, while ministers receive less than N1 million, figures unchanged since 2008. Shehu described the current pay as unrealistic, especially when some heads of agencies reportedly earn significantly more than top government officials.

“You cannot pay a minister less than N1 million and expect him to give his best. A CBN governor or agency DG earns ten times more than the President or Attorney-General. That is not right,” Shehu said.

However, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) strongly opposed the proposal, warning that it ignores worsening inequality and the real cost of hidden allowances. Labour leaders argued that while official salaries appear modest, the total package, including perks for travel, healthcare, housing, and other benefits, far exceeds what is disclosed.

“The President may earn N1.5 million on paper, but with allowances, it could exceed N100 million,” said a senior NLC official.

The union called for transparency in government earnings and prioritisation of workers’ welfare, noting that civil servants are still struggling under the weight of inflation and high living costs.

Meanwhile, RMAFC also announced plans to review the revenue-sharing formula, which allocates 52.68% of federally collected revenue to the federal government, 26.72% to states, and 20.60% to local governments. The formula, last reviewed in 1992, has long been criticised as outdated.

The Commission said it would embark on a transparent, inclusive process involving stakeholders across all levels of government and civil society. Shehu noted that despite previous efforts being stalled by political resistance, especially from the presidency, the current review would reflect new socio-economic realities.

The RMAFC now operates with financial autonomy following a recent legal reform, which Shehu said would strengthen its capacity to carry out reforms independently.

Source: Punch