The Federal Government has assured Kogi State of its full entitlement from the 13 per cent derivation fund after the state was officially recognized as an oil-producing region.

The assurance came from Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), during a meeting with Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and a delegation from the state at the Commission’s Abuja headquarters. The meeting focused on Kogi State’s eligibility and access to the fund.

In a statement, Dr. Shehu pledged the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a fair and lawful distribution of revenue. “Whatever issue you raise, we will strive, within the framework of the law, to ensure Kogi State receives what it is entitled to,” he said.

He emphasized RMAFC’s role in safeguarding allocations from oil, gas, and solid minerals, adding, “We will provide the data, guidance, and technical support needed to optimize these resources for the benefit of your citizens.”

To expedite the process, Dr. Shehu ordered the immediate formation of a joint committee, including officials from RMAFC’s Gas Investments and Crude Oil Departments, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Kogi State government. The committee will address the issues raised and propose actionable solutions.

Governor Ododo highlighted the state’s challenges in accessing its natural resource revenues, questioning why Kogi had yet to benefit from the 13 per cent derivation. He expressed hope that the Commission would handle the matter diligently.

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“We look forward to continued engagement to ensure our resources are fully utilized for the benefit of our people,” he said.

Other participants underscored the importance of accurate data and legal awareness. RMAFC Federal Commissioner for Kebbi State, Rakiya Tanko Ayuba-Haruna, said the derivation fund is treated with utmost seriousness under the 1999 Constitution.

Ambassador Desmond Akawor of Rivers State advised Kogi officials to review post-Petroleum Industry Act frameworks to understand their contractual rights and avoid future disputes.

On solid minerals, Dr. Udodirim Okongwu, Director of the Inland Revenue Department, assured the state that RMAFC can access all relevant data and encouraged the establishment of mineral buying centres to ensure proper attribution.

Kogi State Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Ashiru Asiwaju, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to attracting more investment in the oil and gas sector through the provision of critical information.

Mrs. Ekekhide Jennifer, Assistant Director at NUPRC, confirmed ongoing crude production from OPL 915 (now OML 155) and emphasized the need to strengthen security and infrastructure to create an enabling environment for investors.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to improved fiscal governance, transparency in managing derivation funds, and ensuring that Kogi State fully benefits from its oil, gas, and solid mineral resources for the development and welfare of its citizens.