Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to managing public funds with prudence and transparency to foster sustainable development across the state.

Mutfwang also revealed that Plateau State’s internally generated revenue has significantly increased from N800 million to N3 billion monthly under his administration, attributing this progress to strategic reforms and economic investment.

Speaking at the 27th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday, Mutfwang described taxation as essential for funding government initiatives that benefit the populace.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor addressed the conference theme, “Taxation for Development: Policies, Laws, and Implementation,” noting the event’s importance in examining current tax reforms and creating a practical plan for national growth.

Mutfwang stated that since assuming office, his administration has prioritised the responsible use of public resources to meet critical needs, improve citizens’ living standards, and create an attractive environment for investments.

“I commend CITN for organising this important conference to reflect on how taxation policies and collection mechanisms can be more effective in fostering national development,” Mutfwang said. “This is crucial, as taxation remains a key driver for funding government programmes.”

He stressed the necessity of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in implementing tax reforms to ensure they achieve the intended benefits for all Nigerians.

“To test the validity and credibility of the current tax reforms, those charged with their implementation must embrace transparency and inclusiveness. This is the only way to achieve equitable dividends of development,” he stated.

The governor also expressed his willingness to collaborate with the Federal Inland Revenue Service, the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure efficient tax administration at all levels.

“At the sub-national level, we are committed to prudent resource management. On the Plateau, we believe that you cannot tax poverty; you can only tax wealth. That’s why we are focusing first on stimulating economic activity and wealth creation before expanding the tax base,” he stressed.

He extended an invitation to the CITN leadership to consider hosting future conferences in Plateau State, known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”

In his address, the President and Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Samuel Agbeluyi, welcomed attendees and encouraged members to actively contribute to discussions aimed at advancing Nigeria’s economy.

The Plateau delegation at the conference was led by the Executive Chairman of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service, Jim Pam Wayas.