As Nigeria intensifies its pursuit of fiscal independence, a new generation of Finance Commissioners is emerging as key drivers of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) across the states.
These leaders, drawn from diverse backgrounds in banking, law, academia, and public service, are implementing bold reforms and leveraging their expertise to reshape state economies.
IGR remains a cornerstone of subnational economic sustainability, sourced from a variety of channels including Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE), Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), direct assessment, road taxes, stamp duties, capital gains tax, withholding tax, and local government revenues. The effectiveness of these revenue streams depends heavily on the policies and systems put in place by Finance Commissioners, who serve as architects of fiscal strategy and institutional reform.
In 2024, Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) collectively generated N3.633 trillion in IGR, a significant rise from N2.426 trillion in 2023.
Notably, 10 states accounted for N2.502 trillion of this total, representing 68.88% of the nationwide figure. Although the FCT was initially among the top performers, it was excluded from this ranking due to its unique administrative structure, which lacks a designated Commissioner for Finance.
The role of Finance Commissioners extends beyond revenue collection—they are central to designing and executing policies that align with each state’s development goals. Their decisions on taxation, levies, and financial regulations determine how effectively a state can mobilize domestic resources. By integrating digital systems, streamlining compliance, and fostering inter-agency collaboration, these leaders are transforming the fiscal landscape of their states.
Here are the top 10 Finance Commissioners based on the internal revenue generated by their respective states in 2024.
10. Kwara State – Dr. Hauwa Nuru (N71.19 billion)
Dr. Hauwa Nuru became Kwara State’s Commissioner for Finance in 2023, bringing over 30 years of experience across banking, energy, and strategy. Under her leadership, the state’s IGR rose by 19.45%, from N59.6 billion to N71.19 billion in 2024.
She previously served as General Manager of Finance at Eko Electricity Distribution Company, where she led transformative initiatives in revenue cycle management and energy audits.
Nuru holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and an MBA in Finance from Ahmadu Bello University. Her cross-sector expertise is driving Kwara’s financial modernization.
9. Kaduna State – Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed (N71.57 billion)
Appointed in November 2024, Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed came at the time when Kaduna State IGR had made a 15.44% increase from N62 billion in 2023 to N71.57 billion in 2024. Since assuming the role, his banking and corporate leadership experience have so far been instrumental in enhancing financial transparency and efficiency.
Mohammed previously held executive roles at First Bank, Afri Bank, Habib Bank, and Unity Bank, and served as MD/CEO of Peugeot Automobile Nigeria. He holds a Master’s in Banking and Finance from Bayero University and a BSc in Agricultural Economics from Ahmadu Bello University. His pragmatic leadership is reshaping Kaduna’s fiscal outlook.
8. Kano State – Dr. Isma’il AliyuDanmaraya (N74.7 billion)
Dr. Isma’il Aliyu Danmaraya took office in January 2025 at a time Kano State’s IGR had doubled from N37 billion in 2023 to N74 billion in 2024. His academic expertise in energy policy and environmental economics has informed a data-driven approach to revenue generation.
Danmaraya has taught at Northwest University and the American University of Nigeria, and holds degrees from Bayero University and Universiti Utara Malaysia. His scholarly background and policy experience have enabled Kano to implement innovative fiscal reforms and broaden its revenue base.
7. Akwa Ibom – Emem Bob (N75.7billion)
Emem Bob transitioned from Commissioner for Economic Development to Finance in February 2025, following a cabinet reshuffle by Governor Umo Eno. Before the new role, Akwa Ibom’s IGR rose by 74.42%, from N43 billion in 2023 to N75.7 billion in 2024.
Bob’s career spans over two decades in banking, with stints at UBA, Fidelity Bank, Heritage Bank, and All States Trust Bank.
He holds an MBA from the University of Port Harcourt Business School. His strategic focus on economic development and financial inclusion has made Akwa Ibom a standout performer.
6. Edo State – Emmanuel Okoebor (N91 billion)
Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor was appointed Commissioner for Finance in November 2024, succeeding Joseph Eboigbe. His appointment came at a time Edo State IGR had witnessed a 40.87% increase year-on-year, from N64.6 billion to N91 billion in 2024.
His banking background and operational leadership have so far contributed to improved revenue systems and fiscal discipline.
Okoebor spent over 25 years in banking, including roles at Standard Trust and UBA, where he rose to Assistant General Manager and Regional Manager overseeing 15 business offices. He holds a degree in Civil Engineering and an MBA from the University of Benin. His technical and managerial acumen have strengthened Edo’s financial architecture.
5. Delta State – Fidelis Tilije (N157.7 billion)
Fidelis Tilije has maintained continuity in Delta State’s financial leadership, serving under former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and current Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Under his stewardship, the state’s IGR rose by 37.72%, from N114 billion in 2023 to N157.7 billion in 2024. His tenure reflects a deep understanding of both public and private sector dynamics.
Tilije’s career includes executive roles at Fortune International Bank, Standard Trust Bank, and First City Merchant Bank. He holds degrees in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos and is a fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Bankers and the Chartered Institute of Marketers. His experience in investment banking and corporate finance has been pivotal to Delta’s fiscal growth.
4. Enugu State – Dr. Nathaniel Urama (N180.5 billion)
Appointed in August 2023, Dr. Nathaniel Urama has transformed Enugu State’s revenue profile, achieving a staggering 433.43% increase in IGR, from N33.8 billion to N180.5 billion in just one year. His academic background and research-driven approach have been instrumental in reshaping the state’s economic strategy.
Urama previously served as a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and held leadership roles at the African Heritage Institution and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies. He holds a First Class degree and MSc in Economics from UNN, and a PhD from the University of Reading. His data-centric governance style has positioned Enugu as a rising fiscal contender.
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