● Ferdy Agu
Enugu – Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to advancing the state’s development agenda, underscoring the critical role taxation plays in funding large-scale projects across the state. Speaking on Saturday (yesterday) at the inauguration of the 6th Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Enugu and District Society, Emeka Sunday Ajogwu, Commissioner for Special Duties, conveyed the governor’s message, highlighting over 1,000 ongoing projects under Mbah’s leadership.
According to Ajogwu, Governor Mbah’s innovative approach to financing, particularly through tax reforms, is yielding the expected results. He noted that despite limited federal allocation, the administration has almost successfully implemented about ₦521 billion 2024 budget, allowing projects like the International Conference Centre and Hotel Presidential to be completed after years of neglect. “We are all witnesses to massive roads construction across the state and the ongoing completion of the abandoned international conference centre and hotel presidential among others, ” he noted.
“The tax reforms led by the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS) under Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani have been instrumental in achieving these milestones. People may find it difficult to pay taxes, but the ongoing projects across Enugu State stand as proof that their contributions are being put to good use,” Ajogwu further said.
In his remarks, Samuel Agbeluyi, President and Chairman of CITN Council, applauded Governor Mbah for his strategic leadership. Agbeluyi noted that the administration’s focus on infrastructure and tax reforms serves as a model for other states. “Enugu’s bold development initiatives underscore the critical role of taxation in creating a sustainable future,” he added.
Ozo Chidi Ezema, the newly inaugurated CITN Enugu chairman, echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the governor’s commitment to long-term growth through taxation. “Without the reforms introduced by the state’s revenue service, many of the ongoing projects wouldn’t be possible,” Ezema stated. He called on citizens to continue fulfilling their tax obligations as part of their civic responsibility.
Speaking to journalists at the event held at Destiny Event Center, Nza street-New Haven link Road Independence Layout Enugu, Lagos-based tax expert Dr. Chike Ogbonna, who traveled to the event, shared his experience navigating road construction in Enugu. “At first, the traffic was frustrating, but I was reminded of the governor’s ‘disruptive innovation’ philosophy. Just like labor pains, the discomfort is temporary, and the outcome will bring lasting joy,” Ogbonna said.
Dr. Ogbonna further urged Enugu residents to be patient, emphasizing that the current disruptions were necessary for the state’s future. “The challenges you see now are the seeds for a brighter tomorrow,” he said, likening the construction inconveniences to the birth of something transformative.
Ajogwu reiterated the administration’s message of hope, asking residents to remain committed to the government’s vision. He stressed that while there may be short-term discomforts, the long-term benefits would create a lasting legacy for the state.
Ozo Chidi Ezema also expressed gratitude to the governor, highlighting the significance of the state’s infrastructural projects. He pointed out that without strategic reforms, such achievements would have been impossible, calling on citizens to remain supportive through their tax contributions.
Governor Mbah’s leadership has continued to win admiration from both local and national stakeholders, with many acknowledging his foresight in steering the state toward sustainable development through innovative taxation strategies. GMTNewsng