ASABA/Nigeria: In an effort to boost the state’s internal revenue generation, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on the State Board of Internal Revenue Service to widen the tax net and include more businesses from the informal sector. The Governor issued this charge during the inauguration ceremony of the Chairman and Executive Directors of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, with Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata heading the team as Chairman.
Governor Oborevwori expressed confidence that the newly appointed Board, comprising experts, technocrats, and seasoned administrators, would perform exceptionally well. He commended the previous Board, led by the current Deputy Governor of the State, for its remarkable contributions to revenue generation. The Governor urged the new Board to surpass their achievements, aligning their efforts with the administration’s M.O.R.E. (Making Our Revenue Expand) Agenda.
The Governor emphasized that there was no need to introduce new taxes, as it would lead to overburdening those already captured in the tax net. Instead, he urged the Board to focus on expanding the tax base to include the informal sector. He stressed the importance of enlightening and creating awareness among the public about the significance of tax payment, which is constitutionally mandated.
“We must find creative ways to bring more people from the informal sector into the tax net,” stated Governor Oborevwori, urging the Board to collaborate with trade associations, professional bodies, business groups, cooperatives, and traditional institutions to reach out to this sector.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the significance of proper monitoring and evaluation to prevent revenue leakages and misappropriation. Transparency, accountability, and judicious allocation of resources remain the administration’s guiding principles.
Addressing the Board directly, the Governor expressed optimism about surpassing the revenue target for the fiscal year. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring every kobo generated is accounted for and used for meaningful development projects that will improve the living conditions of the people.
In response to the Governor’s charge, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, Chairman of the Board, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and promised to work diligently to achieve their set targets.
With these initiatives and a focus on inclusivity, the Delta State government aims to bolster its revenue generation while ensuring accountability and positive impacts on the state’s development.
