Rédaction Africa Links 24 with News Desk
Published on 2024-04-15 11:06:18
The Enugu State Government is aiming to pay salaries this year using Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rather than relying on federal government allocations, according to Prof Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government. This target was revealed at the 49th Annual Synod of the Enugu Archdiocese of the Methodist Church, where Onyia represented Governor Peter Mbah.
The government’s objective is to increase the state’s revenue earnings and boost its Gross Domestic Product from N4 billion to N40 billion. Onyia emphasized that the government did not raise taxes but focused on plugging revenue generation loopholes and ensuring that businesses that had not been paying taxes were captured. He encouraged residents, especially those in the private sector, to pay their taxes directly to the government.
“We have successfully prevented fake receipts on behalf of the government and ensured that all tax payments are made to the government. Our goal is to pay salaries without relying on the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) but from our IGR,” said the SSG.
Furthermore, Onyia announced that within the next 40 days, pipe-borne water would be available in most parts of the state capital, and major road constructions and rehabilitations in various areas of the state would be completed.
The Methodist Church was appreciated by the SSG for its support to the government, especially during elections. He urged the clergy to assist in promoting behavioral change by encouraging their members to fulfill their civic duties, including tax payments.
Most Rev. Christopher Edeh, the Methodist Archbishop of Enugu Diocese, commended the governor for his achievements in the 10 months since taking office. However, he advised the government to reconsider its tax collection methods, as Small and Medium Entrepreneurs were struggling to cope with tax agents. Edeh also suggested that the government consider existing primary and secondary schools in its Smart School project, as older schools appeared to be neglected in favor of new ones.
The annual synod serves as the church’s highest decision-making body, where activities are reviewed and improved upon. The archbishop called on the government to involve the church in its development programs, particularly in appointive positions.
In conclusion, the Enugu State Government’s focus on increasing IGR to pay salaries and boost revenue is a positive step towards financial self-sufficiency. Collaboration with religious institutions like the Methodist Church can also help in promoting civic responsibility and citizen engagement. By addressing concerns raised by community leaders like Archbishop Edeh, the government can ensure a more inclusive and effective governance approach for the benefit of all residents.
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