..we’re committed to regional integration to drive development- Aiyedatiwa

The  South-West Regional Training on Tax Audit, Investigation, Compliance, and Enforcement was today Wednesday  declared open by Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, in Akure the Ondo  State  capital.

The three-day training, held at the Revenue House of the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service, includes participants from the Internal Revenue Services of Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Lagos states.

The training aims to enhance regional tax administration and ensure effective revenue collection, laying a strong foundation for future fiscal stability and growth in the South-West states.

Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his delight at Ondo State hosting the crucial training, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to regional integration to drive development in the South-West.

Highlighting the significance of the training, the Governor noted that South-West states must adapt and strengthen their tax audit, investigation, compliance, and enforcement capabilities to maintain fiscal stability and sustain development initiatives.

“I am delighted to welcome you all to Akure, the capital city of the Sunshine State, for this very important training program. Ondo State is highly honored to host the South-West Regional Training on Tax Audit, Investigation, Compliance, and Enforcement at this iconic Revenue House of the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service.

“Taxation is the lifeblood of any government, enabling us to fulfill our mandate of providing essential services and infrastructure for the welfare and development of our people. This training comes at a pivotal time when the global economic landscape is evolving rapidly.

“In our Internally Generated Revenue, we have achieved what seemed to be impossible despite all challenges. With sheer determination and focus, we set a record and created a story: a story which, for years to come, would reverberate across generations,” he said.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to effective tax governance and economic growth, encouraging participants to engage in robust discussions and share best practices.

“Together, we will strive towards achieving our revenue targets while fostering economic growth and prosperity for all residents of the South-West Region,” he added, urging participants to enjoy the hospitality and pleasant ambiance of Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chairman of the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. Tolu Adegbie, appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support that had been instrumental in advancing the state’s fiscal agenda.

According to him, the Governor’s presence at the event was a testament to the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering sustainable development through effective tax governance.

He noted that his commitment to the cause inspired the attendees, setting a tone of dedication and unity for the training sessions ahead.
He highlighted the primary objective of the training programme which is to foster knowledge exchange and promote best practices in tax administration.
Adegbie underscored the necessity of equipping tax administrators with the skills required to navigate the complexities of modern tax compliance. By doing so, he affirmed that the region could build a resilient tax administration framework capable of supporting economic growth and social progress.

Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of colleagues from the Joint Tax Board (JTB) and various resource persons, Adegbie expressed optimism that their participation would undoubtedly enrich the discussions over the coming days, offering fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to tax administration.
He therefore, urged participants to actively engage in the sessions, and seize the opportunity to share strategies and forge partnerships that would enhance their collective capacity in tax compliance and enforcement.

His words:” It is a privilege to host this esteemed gathering dedicated to enhancing our capabilities in tax administration across the Southwest region. We are gathered here with a shared commitment to strengthening our tax audit, investigation, compliance, and enforcement practices, ensuring that our revenue systems are robust, efficient, and equitable.
“I am confident that this training will not only deepen our understanding but also inspire actionable steps towards achieving our shared objectives. Together, we can achieve excellence in tax administration and contribute to the sustainable development of our beloved South-West region and Nigeria at large”.

The State Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Phillips, expressed confidence that the training would bring positive development that will culminate into improved tax safety.

Credit: Mary Agidi