Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents and businesses of his administration’s commitment to fair taxation, emphasizing that excessive taxes will not be imposed on the people.
Speaking at the 156th Joint Tax Board Meeting in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, themed “Opportunities and Strategies for Improved Taxation of High Net-Worth Individuals in Nigeria,” Governor Fubara outlined strategies to maximize revenue collection while supporting economic growth.
The Governor highlighted the critical role of taxes in ensuring public sector functionality and supporting vulnerable communities, especially amid Nigeria’s economic challenges. “Without adequate revenues, it will be difficult for the government to meet its obligations to provide public services and advance collective security and prosperity,” he said.
Fubara revealed that his administration has expanded Rivers State’s tax base without raising rates, leading to consistent revenue growth. Projects funded through these revenues include the Trans-Kalabari Road, the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Dual Carriageway, zonal hospitals, and new general and psychiatric hospitals in Rumuigbo.
He pledged collaboration with the Joint Tax Board to streamline Rivers State’s tax system, broaden the base, and enhance efficiency, emphasizing that a responsible tax system should foster societal growth and attract investment.
“The purpose of a tax system is not to stifle society but to enable it to develop and prosper,” he remarked, urging the Board to focus on repealing outdated policies and fostering inter-agency cooperation.
Governor Fubara commended the Joint Tax Board’s efforts and challenged participants to develop innovative strategies for improving Nigeria’s tax systems for collective progress.
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