The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to enhance the collection of taxes from non-taxable Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by increasing the percentage from the current 18% to 40%. Dr. Oyeyemi Ayoola, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor, Office of Internal Audit, announced this initiative on Monday during the commencement of a five-day training focused on Revenue Systems Audit of non-tax IGR.
Ayoola emphasized that this strategic move aims to equip officers with cutting-edge technologies in auditing, fortifying measures against leakages in non-tax IGR. The training, conducted in collaboration with the University of Calgary, Haskayne School of Business, Alberta, Canada, is designed to enhance the efficiency of revenue systems and ensure fiscal responsibility.
“As a state, we have set THEMEs plus Agenda to achieve. To realize these goals, we require revenue for project execution; hence the imperative to review and increase the non-taxable IGR in the state,” Ayoola stated.
Abdulkabir Ogungbo, the Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, clarified that the training’s primary objective is to broaden the non-tax IGR base and enhance compliance with internal systems. This strategic focus is instrumental in helping the state attain its targeted expenditure goals.
Kikelomo Dawodu, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Internal Audit, highlighted the significance of the development as a motivating factor in all aspects of life. She stressed the need to ensure sufficient funds to sustain Lagos, eliminate leakages, and deliver improved services to the residents of the state.