By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Administration with strategic stakeholders have reappraised ways to resolve issues affecting raising of taxes to bring about harmonisation in the territory.
This followed the cases of crooked means of revenue collection in Federal Capital City and the suburbs by tax impostors.
At a town hall meeting on harmonisation of revenue in FCT tagged, ‘harmonisation drive: Shaping our future together’, held Monday in Abuja, the stakeholders who spoke separately, re-echoed the need for uniformity in revenue collection.
The permanent secretary Federal Capital Territory Administration, Olusade Adesola said the harmonization was not just a routine administrative exercise; but will serve as a pedestal for tremendous significance and potential impact for the FCT.
He noted that the idea will encourage streamlining and optimizing revenue collection processes, which is aimed at achieving critical objectives.
Adesola said: ” We seek to enhance transparency and accountability in revenue collection, ensuring that funds are efficiently allocated and utilized for the benefit of the FCT’s residents.
“This will help build trust and confidence in the government’s ability to manage resources effectively.
“The harmonization drive will eliminate duplication and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, creating a more conducive environment for businesses and investors. By simplifying and consolidating our revenue collection systems, we aim to attract more investment, stimulate economic growth, and create employment opportunities. This will enhance the FCT’s reputation as an investment-friendly destination and contribute to the overall development of the region”
Abdullahi Sabo, chairman Kuje Area Council, who spoke on behalf of the chairman FCT Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Danladi Chiya, said the Area Councils will continue to support issues that will curb revenue leakages in their areas.
Chiya disclosed that the chairmen of Six Area Council have endorsed the harmonisation for the good of the residents.
“We will always support anything that will help block revenue leakages in the Area Councils, with the revenue harmonisation there will be effective revenue coordination”
For Senator Philip Aduda, he called on the council chairmen, FCT-Internal Revenue Service and FCT Administration to develop a legal frame work that will address all areas of crisis.
“The issue of revenue collection is not a new issue, we started it during the days of former minister of FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed. I was thinking it was wrong but after proper assessment and consultation, I have accepted it. The harmonisation is a good thing for us in FCT, therefore the council chairmen should embrace it” Aduda said.
