Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
In a recent State House press release, President Bola Tinubu announced the appointment of Ambassador Desmond Akawor as the new Federal Commissioner of the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). This appointment comes in the wake of the unfortunate passing of the previous RMAFC Federal Commissioner from Rivers State, Hon. Asondu Wenah Temple earlier this month.
Ambassador Akawor, representing Rivers State, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in various capacities such as Nigeria’s Ambassador to South Korea, Minister of State of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Sole Administrator of the Greater Port Harcourt Development Authority, CEO of the Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority, and Executive Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (Engineering & Technical Services).
Truth Live News reports that the President emphasized Ambassador Akawor’s responsibility to utilize his extensive experience to facilitate comprehensive reforms across government tiers. President Tinubu aims to enhance the efficiency and productivity of resource allocations to all three tiers of the Nigerian government.
Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, conveyed the President’s directive. The statement underscores the importance of Ambassador Akawor’s role in driving positive change and optimizing resource utilization in the country.
Pending confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, Ambassador Akawor is expected to step into his new role with a mandate to contribute to the effective functioning of the RMAFC. The President’s choice reflects a commitment to appointing individuals with a proven track record of public service and leadership.
Ambassador Desmond Akawor’s appointment as the RMAFC Federal Commissioner has been marked by contrasting opinions.
Some feel it is the minister of the FCT overreaching to slots predominantly given to APC loyalists while others see it as a square peg in a square hole based on the appointees profile and work experience.
The press release was undersigned by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.