In a strategic move aimed at enhancing revenue generation and mobilization, the Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area, Akachukwu Eze, has inaugurated a seven-member standing Committee tasked with remodelling the operations of the Udenu Internal Revenue Service (IRS), as well as generating revenue for the Council. This initiative seeks to address critical loopholes and inefficiencies in the local revenue system and maximizing all acruable revenue to the coffers of the council.
The Committee, inaugurated over the weekend, is chaired by Barr. Dr. Chidiebere Nnamani, who has remarkable experience in Revenue Generation. The Secretary of the committee is Ezeme Christian, the Market Master Udenu Local Government. Other key members include Mamah Andy, the Local Government Revenue Officer, and Onyekachi C. Ugwu, who brings to the table vast experience in Local Government revenue matters among others whose inclusion reflects a broad representation of stakeholders critical to the revenue ecosystem of Udenu Local Government Area.
The Committee’s primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the existing revenue structure, and engender revenue generation and mobilisation within the Local Government Area. According to Udenu Mayor, the team is expected to identify and plug loopholes in revenue generation processes and streamline mobilization routes to ensure increased efficiency and transparency.
“This initiative is part of our administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable development by maximizing our revenue potential. We aim to build a system that ensures every kobo generated in Udenu is accounted for and properly utilized,” the chairman stated during the inauguration ceremony.
The Chairman further emphasized the need for the Committee to address gray areas in revenue collection and to explore innovative approaches to widen the revenue base without overburdening the people. He urged them to work diligently in the interest of the good people of Udenu.
Speaking on behalf of the Committee, Barr. Dr. Chidiebere Nnamani expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged the Committee’s commitment to delivering on its mandate. He highlighted the importance of creating a transparent, accountable, and innovative revenue system that would serve as a model for other Local Government Areas.
“Our focus will be on identifying leakages, introducing mechanisms to block them, and designing a framework that will enhance efficiency in revenue collection. We are determined to provide actionable steps to achieve the aims of Government for our people,” Dr. Nnamani said.
One of the Committee’s main areas of attention will be the management of revenue from markets, including the Obollo Afor Market, and other major markets in Udenu, which are significant contributors to the local economy. Ezeme Christian, the Committee’s Secretary, stated that the market’s revenue streams have been undermined by inefficiencies and gaps in the collection process.
Additionally, the Committee is expected to review revenue generation from transport hubs, local businesses, and agricultural produce. Mamah Andy, the Local Government Revenue Officer, noted that addressing these areas would significantly boost the council’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
To ensure the success of this initiative, the Committee will engage with various stakeholders, including market traders, transport unions, and local business operators. Onyekachi C. Ugwu, a committee member, emphasized the importance of creating a participatory framework that incorporates the views and concerns of all relevant parties.
“We believe that a participatory approach will not only make the process more transparent but also foster trust and cooperation from the people,” he said.
The constitution of this Committee reflects Akachukwu Eze’s proactive approach to governance and his determination to optimize Udenu’s revenue-generating potential. As it begin its work, residents and stakeholders are optimistic that the initiative will lead to a more robust and transparent revenue system, ultimately contributing to the development of Udenu Local Government Area.
With the clock ticking on their three-week mandate, all eyes are on the Committee as they navigate this critical assignment.
© AkaEzeAka Media Team.
