By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

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

The payments include N20,445,784 for Land Use Charge and N22,100,000 for Radio and TV licence revenues.

Speaking at the Joint State Revenue Committee (JSRC) meeting, Acting Chairman of ODIRS, Bayo Rojugbokan, described the gathering as a crucial platform bringing together the ODIRS and local government chairmen to harmonise policies for a more efficient internally generated revenue (IGR) system.

He noted that the latest disbursement reflects a remarkable improvement in revenue collection compared to previous years.

“The local government chairmen are pleased with the revenue collected, as it surpasses previous allocations. The Ondo State Government remains committed to fostering a cooperative approach towards revenue collection, ensuring transparency, integrity, and sincerity in harnessing all possible revenue sources within the state,” he stated.

Rojugbokan emphasised the importance of collaboration between local governments and the Internal Revenue Service to enhance efficiency in revenue collection.

He further highlighted the state government’s adoption of technology to ease tax payment processes.

“To further enhance revenue collection and streamline the payment process, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has introduced a digital platform known as I-Ondo. This innovative system revolutionises tax collection by making payments more accessible and convenient for residents. With I-Ondo, individuals can pay their taxes from the comfort of their homes, whether from their dining rooms, bedrooms, or anywhere else, using the platform directly or through bank transfers.

“This eliminates the need for physical visits to government offices or engaging third parties, thereby reducing the risk of fraud and enhancing transparency in the system,”* he explained.

He assured that the state government would continue refining the I-Ondo platform to ensure seamless tax payments into designated government accounts.

“The system minimises revenue leakages and ensures that funds reach the appropriate destination for proper remittance. While no system is entirely foolproof, this digital innovation significantly reduces the chances of financial mismanagement and strengthens the state’s revenue framework.

“With this collaborative effort and the adoption of digital solutions, Ondo State is taking bold steps towards a more transparent, efficient, and accountable revenue collection system, ensuring sustainable development and progress for all its citizens,”* Rojugbokan added.

Reacting to the disbursement, Chairman of Akure South Local Government and ALGON Chairman, Ondo State, Dr Gbenga Fasua, described the event as a landmark moment for local governments, noting that the six-month return to LGs was 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 they remain financially stable and capable of meeting the needs of the people. For us, this is not a new concept—we understand its significance clearly and are committed to operating within the confines of the law. The various revenue-generating avenues available to state and local governments are well known, and we are determined to maximise them effectively.

“I can confidently assure the people that under our leadership, internally generated revenue will witness a significant increase. We are implementing innovative strategies, such as the agro-asset platform and e-collection systems, to enhance 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 stated.

A consultant, Dr Thomson Aiyegunle, delivered a lecture on strengthening budget preparation, financial control, and revenue generation at the local government level.

He stressed that with local governments now receiving direct allocations from the federal government, there is an urgent need for officials to enhance their financial planning and resource management skills.

*”While these allocations provide financial support, internally generated revenue (IGR) must also be strengthened to ensure sustainable development.

“As direct accounting officers, local government officials must continuously enrich their knowledge in financial control and monitoring. Implementing transparent and accountable financial practices is crucial for ensuring effective and efficient service delivery to the people.

“By adopting best practices in budgeting and revenue generation, local governments can maximise their financial resources, meet the growing needs of their communities, and drive socioeconomic development at the grassroots level,”* he stated.