From Mfon Ekefre, Uyo
Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has advocated prompt payment of tax by individuals, business outfits and corporate organizations operating in the country to enhance the provision of integrated development for the wellbeing of the citizenry. He said before the advent of oil, tax was one of the sources of revenue that was used to provide social services to the people.
Governor Emmanuel, who made the remark during the Mandatory Training Programme of the Chartered Institute of Taxation in Nigeria (CITN) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, described tax as a major source of revenue in most countries of the world.
Emmanuel, who spoke through his Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akan Okon, charged tax administrators to create enlightenment and motivational framework that would make the people understand tax-related legislation and procedures as well as reawakening the consciousness to be patriotic and see it as a civic responsibility.
According to the governor, this will spur the citizens’ compliance and willingness to render this important obligation as expected.
While assuring government’s partnership with CITN in its drive to expand and increase its internally generated revenue base, the governor said his administration has built the confidence and trust of the people with the judicious application of tax payers money to meet the people’s needs and yearnings.
He sued for continued support of the people and also pledged his commitment to deliver more democratic dividends in the state.
President, CITN, Mr. Cyril Ede said the people placed high premium on capacity building and training programmes for members to achieve efficiency in service.
He called on participants to make good use of the opportunity to acquire new ideas and knowledge so that they can be on the same page with the rest of their counterparts in the world.
Leave a Reply