Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has directed all ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in the state to intensify efforts towards achieving an ambitious internally generated revenue (IGR) target of N870 billion. The governor gave the charge against the backdrop of rising global economic tensions, which he said make it risky for governments to depend heavily on external funding.

Governor Mbah said the state must strengthen its internal revenue base to protect its development plans from shocks caused by global inflation, falling commodity prices, and uncertain foreign capital flows. He urged MDAs to improve efficiency, block revenue leakages, and use technology to ensure transparency and accountability in revenue collection.

According to him, boosting IGR will enable the state to fund critical infrastructure, education, healthcare and security without excessive borrowing. He added that Enugu must build a self-reliant economy that can withstand global disruptions and still deliver quality public services to its people.

The governor assured residents that the government would not impose unfair taxes but would focus on expanding the tax net, formalising the informal sector, and ensuring that everyone pays only what is fair and lawful. He called on citizens and businesses to cooperate with the government to achieve sustainable growth.