Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a self-sustaining economy capable of funding its recurrent expenditures without heavy reliance on federal allocations.

Speaking on Saturday at the inauguration of the new Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) Area Tax Office in Ikole Ekiti, Oyebanji described the initiative as a strategic move to decentralize revenue collection and enhance tax administration efficiency. He noted that strengthening the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) was key to achieving economic independence while sparing citizens unnecessary financial burdens.

“Our goal is to fund recurrent expenditures, including workers’ salaries, entirely from IGR. This will allow funds from the Federation Accounts Allocation Commission (FAAC) to be directed toward developmental projects,” Oyebanji said. “The funds generated will be used to provide critical infrastructure and improve the standard of living in the state.”

He praised the EKIRS for its efforts in boosting the state’s revenue base and urged them to intensify awareness campaigns to educate residents about their civic responsibility to pay taxes.

EKIRS Chairman, Olaniran Olatona, highlighted the visible impact of public funds on ongoing developmental projects across the state, noting that this had fostered trust and improved tax compliance among residents.

“Governor Oyebanji’s effective use of public funds has made it easier to convince taxpayers to fulfill their obligations as they can see the direct impact of their contributions,” Olatona said.

Residents were encouraged to support the government’s vision by paying their taxes promptly and regularly, as it is essential to sustaining the state’s progress.