RMAFC Commissioner seeks enhanced protection of critical infrastructures

The Commissioner representing Akwa Ibom State in the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Barr Imo Akpan, has emphasized the need for enhanced protection of critical infrastructures in the state.

Akpan made the call on Thursday during familiarization visits to the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, and the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), H. K. Bakshak, in their respective offices in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

CP Baba Azare (left) listening to Barr. Akpan during the visit

Describing Akwa Ibom State as “the goose that lays the golden eggs for Nigeria”, he noted that the federal infrastructures and establishments domiciled in the state are very critical to the country’s economy.

He commended the efforts of the Nigeria Police, but stressed that more needs to be done to safeguard the revenue base.

“This visit marks the commencement of what is poised to be a very mutually beneficial synergy between RMAFC and the police. My Commission is a federal establishment likewise the Nigeria Police. It is therefore important that we explore areas of collaboration and forge a good working relationship for the good of our country,” Akpan stated.

He hailed the Akwa Ibom State Government under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno for engendering a peaceful and safe State, and for cooperating with the federal government in its mission to better the lot of the State. Barr. Akpan congratulated CP Azare on his deployment to Akwa Ibom, and wished him a successful tenure in office.

Responding, the CP appreciated the Commissioner for the visit, and reiterated the Akwa Ibom State Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties.

Commandant H. K. Bakshak (left) receiving Barr. Imo Akpan to his office

At NSCDC, Barr. Akpan reiterated his call for enhanced protection of federal infrastructures and establishments. “As the Commissioner representing Akwa Ibom State in RMAFC, I am committed to ensuring that the revenue base is well protected. I call on all security agencies in the state to collaborate with us in achieving this goal.”

The State Commandant of the NSCDC, H. K. Bakshak, responded by thanking Akpan for his visit and acknowledging the need for more assistance. “We appreciate the Commissioner’s visit and his call for enhanced protection of critical infrastructures. We are committed to working with RMAFC and other stakeholders to achieving this mandate.”

He highlighted the challenges posed by multiple flashpoints in the state, which require adequate mobilization and equipment to address. “Our personnel face enormous challenges, for instance in the riverine areas where we have just one gunboat to patrol the entire Akwa Ibom coastline. We need assistance in this regard. We are doing our best at the moment, and I’m certain that this collaboration would make us be more efficient,” he added.

Both interactions ended on a positive note, as the two security agencies pledged to partner with RMAFC for enhanced results.

The Commissioner also promised to relay feedback on the visits to the Commission in Abuja, promising positive feedback in no distant time.

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