State governors under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) are meeting in Abuja to discuss critical national matters, including fiscal and developmental challenges.
The meeting, which began at 8:30 p.m., is the Forum’s 11th physical session this year and is chaired by NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq. High on the agenda are the reconciliation of the Excess Crude Account (ECA), petroleum profit taxes (PPT), and royalties.
Discussions also covered updates on stamp duty remittances, audit findings by Deloitte, and debt net-off arrangements linked to the ECA and other federal revenue sources. A governor in attendance emphasized the importance of these discussions, stating, “This is an opportunity to realign our revenue systems and ensure accountability for the states.”
The gathering will also include a briefing on Nigeria’s participation in the 2024 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) Market Days, slated to take place in Morocco. The forum is anticipated to enhance Nigeria’s investment prospects and partnerships across Africa. According to a senior NGF official, “The Africa Investment Forum presents a unique platform for showcasing Nigeria’s vast economic potential.”
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, is expected to address the governors on ongoing constitution amendment efforts by the National Assembly. Similarly, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, will present the government’s plans for the education sector.