The
Lagos State Government, on Monday, February 19, 2018, flagged off the
electronic payment of Land Use Charge in the state, thereby ushering in
the phase-out of cash payment in revenue collection, effective from March 1, 2018.
During
the formal introduction of the e-payment platform of Land Use Charge
held on Monday, Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode
became the first homeowner in the state to pay his tax into the
newly-opened Land Use Charge Account at the Guaranty Trust Bank, Opebi
Branch, Ikeja.
While
delivering his remarks at the event, Governor Ambode said “I have just
invested my quota by paying my Land Use Charge and I ask all
residents/citizens to join me by courageously making a decision for
prosperity and pay all their due taxes”.
He
described the rationale behind the new development as important since
the government should not preach and promise prosperity without leading
by example. The Governor further urged residents and all taxable adults
to be faithful to their civic obligations.
“Lagosians,
with your full support, there is evidence that every kobo paid in taxes
has been productively utilised in infrastructural renewal and
development of the State in the last two and a half (2½) years. It is my
hope that we have gained your trust and confidence to move this State
forward. For every one kobo you pay as taxes, we will give greater
value and comfort to all citizens without anyone being left behind”, Mr.
Ambode stated.
Starting from March 1,
the transaction process in revenue collection has now been made easier
for residents and citizens of Lagos State who can now pay every day, any
time and online on all payment channels at their own time and
convenience. No payments or taxes would be made by cash across the state
in order to ensure that the government improves on the quality of
service delivery to the people.
“We
should be able to pay our taxes from any bank, WebPay, Paypoint and
mobile money platforms without any contact with government officials.
The Lagos State Government is in partnership with Interswitch Ltd and
all multi-layered payment platforms are to be deployed and used by all
Government Ministries, Agencies, Parastatals and associated
Companies/Units. Local Governments must quickly adjust their collection
machinery to eliminate all leakages also. Do not pay into wrong hands
anymore”, he advised.
Concluding,
the Governor made an appeal to all taxable adults to be patriotic in
this crusade. “That flyover or health centre you see is built from
taxpayer’s contributions. The facility provided is for everybody
irrespective of tribe, religion or creed. Let us show the rest of
Nigeria what it is to be a proud Lagosian. Perform your civic duties.
It is the right thing to do”.
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