The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has commenced a review of remuneration packages for political, public, and judicial office holders across Nigeria, despite widespread criticism of the plan.
RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Shehu, disclosed the move on Monday, arguing that the current salary structure is outdated and unrealistic given the nation’s economic realities. He emphasized that the last review was carried out in 2008, leaving pay scales stagnant for over 16 years.
Shehu revealed that President Bola Tinubu earns about ₦1.5 million monthly, while ministers take home less than ₦1 million. “You are paying the President ₦1.5 million a month. Everybody believes that it is a joke. You cannot pay a minister less than ₦1 million per month since 2008 and expect him to put in his best without necessarily being involved in some other things,” he said.
The RMAFC boss also noted the disparity between political office holders and heads of government agencies, some of whom earn 10 to 20 times more than the President or the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The proposed review has sparked debate among Nigerians, with critics arguing that increasing salaries for politicians amid economic hardship could worsen public discontent. However, the commission insists that fair remuneration is key to reducing corruption and ensuring optimal performance.
