The National Open University of Nigeria has taken a step towards securing improved conditions for its staff and expanding its policy influence, following a strategic visit to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission in Abuja that produced agreements on research collaboration, digital learning and fiscal policy development.

The RMAFC chairman, Mohammed Shehu, received NOUN Vice Chancellor, Oduma Orji Oduma and his management team on Thursday, describing the meeting as timely and reaffirming the commission's commitment to evidence based reforms and partnerships that strengthen fiscal governance.

Shehu noted that the commission would objectively consider NOUN's requests, particularly those relating to its operational model and staff remuneration, but stressed that any decision would follow a thorough evaluation process.

"The RMAFC will conduct a comprehensive job evaluation and labour market benchmarking before considering any specialised salary structure. Fiscal impact analysis will also guide the commission's assessment of differentiated allowances for open and distance learning personnel," he stated.

He added that all recommendations would be anchored on empirical evidence, fairness, equity and fiscal sustainability, while commending the university for expanding access to quality higher education through its open and distance learning model.

Oduma, on his part, proposed the establishment of a Centre for Fiscal Studies and Policy for Revenue Studies, which he said would undertake revenue forecasting, fiscal impact assessment and evidence based policy recommendations to support national development.

He also offered NOUN's expertise in developing digital learning platforms and capacity building programmes for public sector personnel, noting that the university's nationwide study centres, ICT infrastructure and digital learning facilities positioned it to deliver professional training at scale.

Oduma stressed that open and distance learning require sustained investment in digital libraries, online learning platforms and ICT infrastructure to remain effective and competitive.

Both institutions pledged to sustain technical engagements as a foundation for a long term strategic partnership aimed at bridging the gap between academia and fiscal policy reform in Nigeria.