Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reassured residents that his administration will not introduce new taxes, despite the economic challenges facing the country. He said his government has deliberately avoided adding new taxes for over six years, choosing instead to focus on economic growth and widening the existing tax base.
The governor made this known during a media chat with Channels Television, where he spoke on governance, revenue generation, and the economic direction of Oyo State. According to him, the state’s approach is centered on creating an environment where businesses can grow and citizens can earn a living, rather than placing additional financial burden on the people.
Makinde said his administration believes that taxing residents more, especially in difficult times, would be unfair and counterproductive.
“We have gone more than six years without increasing taxes or introducing new ones,” the governor said. “Our focus has been on bringing more people into the existing tax net, not increasing the burden on those who are already paying.”
He explained that many states in Nigeria rely heavily on internally generated revenue, but the way this revenue is collected matters. Makinde described the issue as a “chicken-and-egg” situation, asking whether governments should raise taxes first or create the right conditions for economic activities to thrive.
“When you create a living environment where people and businesses can expand production, you build a productive economy,” he said. “Only then are you in a position to raise revenue effectively.”
The governor noted that when businesses are doing well, they naturally pay more taxes without being forced. He added that economic growth leads to job creation, increased income, and better living standards, which in turn strengthens government revenue in a sustainable way.
Makinde’s comments come at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with rising living costs, inflation, and economic reforms at the federal level. In several states, residents have complained about multiple taxes and levies imposed by state and local governments.
In Oyo State, however, the governor said his administration has worked to reduce unnecessary levies and improve transparency in tax collection. He said this has helped build trust between the government and the people.
Since assuming office in 2019, Makinde has repeatedly emphasized his commitment to people-focused governance. His administration has invested heavily in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture as part of efforts to grow the state’s economy.
Major road projects across Ibadan and other parts of the state, as well as investments in agribusiness and industrial zones, have been presented by the government as steps toward creating a business-friendly environment.
The governor also pointed to reforms in the state’s tax system, aimed at making tax payment easier and fairer. By using technology and improving record-keeping, the government has been able to identify more taxpayers without raising tax rates.
According to Makinde, many people who were previously outside the tax system are now paying their fair share, which has helped increase revenue without introducing new taxes.
Makinde said his administration understands the hardship many families are facing and would not worsen the situation by introducing new taxes.
“Our priority is to grow the economy first,” he said. “Once people are earning and businesses are expanding, revenue will come naturally.”
Residents of Oyo State have reacted positively to the governor’s statement, with many praising the decision not to increase taxes. Some business owners said stable tax policies allow them to plan better and invest with confidence.
A small business owner in Ibadan said, “At least we know the government is not looking for new ways to tax us. What we want is support and good roads, and that will help our businesses grow.”
However, some observers have noted that the challenge for the state will be to sustain revenue growth without tax increases, especially as demand for public services continues to rise.
In response, the governor said his administration remains committed to prudent spending and efficient use of resources. He added that blocking leakages and improving governance are key to managing the state’s finances.
Makinde also stressed that good governance is not just about collecting money but about using it wisely to improve people’s lives.
