Lawmakers argued that the current formula no longer reflects the scale of responsibilities borne by the centre.

The Senate on Tuesday commenced moves to amend the 1999 Constitution to increase the Federal Government’s share of revenue from the Federation Account.

Lawmakers argued that the current formula no longer reflects the scale of responsibilities borne by the centre.

Under the existing allocation, the Federal Government receives 52.68 per cent of federation revenue, the 36 states share 26.72 per cent, while the 774 local government councils get 20.60 per cent.

Despite already taking the largest portion, the Senate, through a bill sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi (APC, Kogi West), is seeking an upward review of the federal government’s share.

The bill, which had its first reading at plenary, proposes amendments to the constitutional provisions governing revenue distribution among the three tiers of government.

“The proposed alteration seeks to increase federal government revenue allocation to address mounting financial obligations and national responsibilities across Nigeria,” Karimi said.

He added: “The current revenue sharing formula is outdated and unsustainable because it places excessive financial pressure on the federal government amid rising infrastructure decay and insecurity nationwide.”

Karimi noted that funding constraints have affected the maintenance of federal roads and the fight against banditry and terrorism across the country.

“Responsibilities borne by the Federal Government, particularly the construction and maintenance of federal roads, have become overwhelming under the existing revenue formula, aside from the enormous responsibilities on internal security,” he said.

He expressed confidence that a higher allocation to the Federal Government would improve Nigeria’s capacity to tackle insecurity and infrastructure decay.

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