RMAFC Reviews Funding Framework For Nigeria Foreign Missions, Targets Sustainable Operations
Proposed reforms seek to address funding uncertainties, improve diplomatic efficiency and strengthen Nigeria’s international representation.
Abuja – November 11, 2026
The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has initiated a comprehensive review of funding arrangements for Nigeria’s diplomatic missions abroad, with a view to establishing a sustainable, transparent and predictable financing framework that will enhance operational efficiency and strengthen the country’s international representation.
The Chairman of RMAFC, Dr Mohammed Shehu, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the inaugural meeting of the Presidential Technical Working Group established to examine alternative funding options for Nigeria’s embassies and diplomatic missions worldwide.
Dr Shehu explained that the initiative was in response to a presidential directive issued on October 14, 2026, mandating a comprehensive fiscal and technical assessment in collaboration with relevant government institutions. He noted that the review would address persistent funding challenges that have affected the effective discharge of diplomatic responsibilities.
According to him, Nigeria’s foreign missions play strategic roles in protecting the interests of citizens abroad, strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations, promoting trade and investment, and advancing the country’s economic and diplomatic interests. However, uncertainty in funding has continued to constrain the operations of some missions.
Drawing from observations during previous official visits and engagements with Nigerian diplomatic personnel across different countries, the RMAFC chairman highlighted the operational difficulties associated with inadequate and unpredictable funding.
He stressed that addressing the challenges would require more than increased budgetary allocations, adding that the review would also examine issues relating to timely fund releases, budget preparation and implementation, foreign exchange arrangements and expenditure management.
Dr Shehu clarified that the exercise was not intended to undermine or interfere with the statutory responsibilities of other government institutions but to strengthen inter-agency coordination and provide the technical expertise required to develop an effective and sustainable funding structure.
He said the working group would assess existing funding arrangements, identify the underlying causes of financial instability, explore alternative financing options and recommend a framework that reflects Nigeria’s prevailing economic and fiscal realities.
The committee is expected to submit its findings and a comprehensive implementation plan to President Bola Tinubu on or before December 11, 2026. Shehu consequently urged participating ministries, departments and agencies to provide the necessary information and technical support to ensure the timely completion of the assignment.
He further emphasised that the proposed framework must strike a balance between Nigeria’s diplomatic obligations and the principles of fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability.
The inaugural meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Budget Office of the Federation, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, among other government agencies.
The review is expected to provide a more predictable and sustainable funding model for Nigeria’s diplomatic missions, enhance the country’s international engagement, promote economic diplomacy and improve the delivery of consular services to Nigerians living and doing business abroad.
Edited by Rosemary Aiyenale
Source: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
