By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS), has disbursed two cheques totalling N42,545,784 to the 18 local governments in the state as their share of Land Use Charge and Radio/Television Licence Fees.

At the Joint State Revenue Committee (JSRC) meeting, the Acting Chairman of ODIRS, Mr Bayo Rojugbokan, highlighted the significance of the forum, which brings together ODIRS and local government chairmen to harmonise policies and strategies for the efficient collection of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

He stated that the revenue collection has seen a remarkable improvement compared to previous years, with local government chairmen expressing satisfaction over the increased allocation.

“The Ondo State Government remains committed to fostering a cooperative approach towards revenue collection. Transparency, integrity and sincerity are key principles guiding our efforts to harness all possible revenue sources within the state.

“Collaboration between local governments and the Internal Revenue Service is crucial to ensuring comprehensive and efficient revenue collection across Ondo State,” he said.

Rojugbokan further disclosed that, as part of efforts to enhance revenue collection, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has introduced a digital platform, I-Ondo, to revolutionise tax payment processes.

“With I-Ondo, residents can now pay their taxes from the comfort of their homes, whether in their dining rooms, bedrooms, or anywhere else through the platform directly or via bank transfers.

“This eliminates the need for physical visits to government offices or third-party agents, thereby reducing fraud and enhancing transparency in the system,” he added.

He assured that the government remains committed to improving I-Ondo to ensure seamless and user-friendly tax payments, allowing direct remittance to designated government accounts.

Reacting, Dr Gbenga Fasua, Chairman of Akure South Local Government and ALGON Chairman, Ondo State, described the disbursement as a significant milestone, noting that the six-month return to local governments is commendable.

“Ordinarily, this has been our established pattern since assuming office, but with this latest development, we recognise the progress being made and appreciate ODIRS for their continuous efforts in revenue generation.

“Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is undeniably a crucial support system for local governments, ensuring financial stability and the ability to meet the needs of the people. This is not a new concept to us; we understand its significance and are committed to operating within the law.

“The various revenue-generating avenues available to state and local governments are well known, and we are determined to maximise them effectively,” he said.

Fasua assured that under his leadership, IGR would witness significant growth, leveraging innovative strategies such as the agro-asset platform and e-collection systems to boost efficiency.

“Our primary objective is to eliminate leakages and ensure that all revenues due to the local government are properly accounted for.

“Additionally, we will continue to sensitise our people, raising awareness about the importance of paying dues, taxes, and rates as mandated by the local government. Compliance with these obligations is essential for sustained development, and we encourage all citizens to contribute their fair share to the progress of our communities.

“With these initiatives in place, we are confident that our local government will achieve greater financial independence and stability, ultimately benefiting the people of Ondo State,” he averred.

A consultant, Dr. Thomson Aiyegunle, delivered an insightful lecture on the importance of enhancing budget preparation, financial control, and revenue generation at the local government level.

He noted that with local governments now receiving direct allocations from the federal government, it has become imperative for officials to develop financial management skills to optimise resource allocation.