In a move aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline and enhancing state revenue, the Oyo State Government has announced plans to harmonise its revenue collection processes to eliminate leakages and simplify taxpayer compliance.
This assurance was given by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Ghaffar Bello (FCA), during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Lagelu and District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) to his office at the Secretariat in Ibadan.
Alhaji Bello noted that the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration is committed to reforms that will ensure greater transparency, accountability, and improved internally generated revenue (IGR). He said, “We will harmonise the revenue collection to ease the process. In the revenue generation process, we have to know the taxpayers.”
He explained that several proactive steps had already been taken to plug revenue leakages and that further measures would be introduced to ensure the state’s fiscal base remains strong. He added that the government also intends to increase public awareness of new tax laws, to promote voluntary compliance among citizens.
Alhaji Bello further emphasised the importance of Nigeria adopting a production-based economy, noting that “manufacturing is key to economic growth.”
In a collaborative gesture, the governor’s aide announced that the state government would involve the Lagelu ICAN District in its budget formulation process. This move could further enhance transparency and stakeholder participation in governance.
Earlier in her remarks, the pioneer chairman of the district, Chief (Mrs) Omokemi Oladipo (FCA), who led the ICAN delegation, expressed appreciation to Alhaji Bello for his unwavering support, particularly during their recent investiture ceremony.
She reported significant growth and activities in the district since assuming leadership, including member trainings, establishment of a cooperative society, regular meetings, and strategic partnerships with institutions such as Fresh FM and the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development. According to her, the district’s membership has surged from 75 to 250 within a short span.
Other notable members of the delegation included Mr. Patterson Ariemuduigho (FCA), Pa Lucas Omosebi (FCA), Pa A. A. Elujoba (FCA), Dr. Yemi Odebunmi (FCA), Mr. Mark Odang, Mrs. Julianah Adesina, Mrs. Oyeyemi Aremu, Miss. Morolaoluwa Alonge, Alhaji Ismail Gbadamosi, Bukola Babatunde, Sulaiman Eyitayo, and Oluwakemi Adeleke.
The meeting highlighted the increasing collaboration between the state government and professional bodies in promoting good governance, economic development, and public accountability.
