Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bolstering the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) as a means to fund recurrent expenditure and reduce dependency on federal allocations.
Speaking on Saturday during the commissioning of the new Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) Area Tax Office in Ikole-Ekiti, the governor outlined his vision for a self-reliant economy.
He described the establishment of the tax office as a strategic move to decentralise revenue collection and enhance the efficiency of tax administration in the state.
“Our target, by the grace of God, is to fund our recurrent expenditure from IGR. This means we can pay workers’ salaries without relying on federal allocation. Whatever comes from FAAC can then be directed towards development. This is achievable, and I’m happy that residents can already see the results of their contributions in the projects we’re delivering,” Oyebanji said.
Highlighting the state’s progress, Governor Oyebanji noted that significant strides have been made in fulfilling campaign promises across sectors such as education, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and governance. He attributed these achievements to the remarkable increase in IGR and commended the EKIRS team for its dedication to expanding the state’s revenue base.
The governor also urged residents to view tax payment as a civic responsibility, assuring them that funds generated would continue to be used for critical infrastructure and improving the quality of life.
Chairman of EKIRS, Olutona Olaniran, praised Governor Oyebanji for his transparent and effective use of public funds, which has fostered trust and encouraged compliance among taxpayers.
He also called on citizens to embrace their civic duty by paying taxes promptly, emphasizing that a prosperous and self-sufficient Ekiti State depends on collective responsibility.
The event was graced by notable figures, including the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun; Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade; and Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode. Others included the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, James Folorunsho, and the Chairman of Ikole Local Government, Hon. Omobola Bayo.
Chioma Kalu
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