The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is set to witness an accelerated pace of development, as Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike pledges to intensify revenue collection through taxes and ground rent. This strategic move follows the FCT Internal Revenue Service’s (FCT-IRS) announcement of a landmark N262 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for 2024, surpassing its target by N12 billion.
“We are going to be very aggressive in our revenue drive to achieve more projects,” stated Minister Wike during a recent inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects. This declaration underscores a commitment to translating financial success into tangible development for Abuja residents.
The minister’s resolve comes at a crucial time, with several key projects nearing completion. These include the 15-kilometer left-hand service carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) and the 16-kilometer Inner Northern Expressway (INEX), both slated for commissioning in May to commemorate President Tinubu’s second anniversary in office. Additionally, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal Office Complex in Jabi District is expected to be finalized by September.
“Imagine the difference this road will make once completed—it’s not something to underestimate,” Wike emphasized, highlighting the direct impact of these projects on the lives of Abuja residents.
The FCT-IRS, under the leadership of acting Executive Chairman Michael Ango, has been instrumental in achieving the record IGR. Their annual sensitization campaign, aimed at fostering voluntary tax compliance, has yielded significant results. However, Minister Wike insists that more needs to be done to sustain this momentum.
“When people complain about the revocation of Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os), they must understand that tax payments are the lifeblood of impactful projects,” Wike explained. “People constantly request more projects in their areas, but for that to happen, we need the money—and that comes from paying taxes.”
This aggressive revenue drive, Wike clarified, will operate within the bounds of the law. “We will be very, very aggressive, but within legal boundaries, to ensure revenue flow for ongoing and future projects.”
The minister’s stance reflects a broader commitment to accountability and transparency. He stressed that the government has a responsibility to deliver on its promises, and residents, in turn, have a duty to fulfill their tax obligations.
“It’s not politics; it’s about being responsible and responsive,” Wike asserted. “The government has given you land, and paying yearly ground rent is your responsibility.”
The ongoing infrastructure projects, alongside the record IGR, signal a period of significant development for Abuja. As the FCT Administration intensifies its revenue collection efforts, residents can anticipate tangible improvements in their daily lives. The minister’s commitment to delivering high-quality projects on schedule is a testament to the government’s dedication to building trust with contractors and the public.
