Taraba Govt Generates N16bn, Blocks Leakages

Taraba State government has generated N16 billion as internal revenue after blocking leakages traced to some fraudulent officials.

Danjuma Saigudu, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in his office in Jalingo.

The permanent secretary, who appreciated the state government’s efforts to improve its financial standing, said the increase in revenue was due to the government’s commitment to blocking financial leakages, with a view to enhancing development in the state.

Saigudu said with the stringent measures put in place, the state government is optimistic of redoubling its previous revenue drive, through payee, withholding and property taxes, among others.

He stated that the amount generated was the highest in the state’s history, and as such, the state would sustain its drive to improve the well-being of its people.

“You will recall that the ministry, with the approval of His Excellency, conducted a biometric of staff to ensure that those who are not supposed to be in the payroll are flushed out. That is part of blocking leakages.

“You also noticed that, even the revenue of the state has increased from what it used to be.

It has been between N8 billion and N10 billion, but last year, it increased to N16 billion,” Saigudu explained.

According to him, “the recent biometric exercise was not to witch-hunt anyone in the system.”

He commended the state governor for his prudent management of resources, noting that the governor is working closely with the finance ministry, the state internal revenue service and other MDAs to block possible financial leakages in the system.

Saigudu said the administration of Governor Kefas is committed to ensuring fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability.