The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed his expectation that the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) will surpass N70 billion by 2024. During a conversation with journalists in Benin on Saturday, the governor highlighted the consistent growth in the state’s monthly IGR collection since 2016. This growth, he attributed to strategic investments made by his administration to boost the local economy.
Obaseki outlined the factors contributing to the anticipated IGR growth, emphasizing the utilization of the state’s comparative advantage and the exploration of opportunities in technology, culture, manufacturing, and agriculture. He underscored the government’s role as an enabler to stimulate business opportunities, attracting private investors to sectors where the state holds a competitive edge.
The governor pointed out specific projects, such as the Gelegele Seaport and Enterprise Park, as catalysts that would further enhance the state’s Internally Generated Revenue in the coming years. Obaseki also highlighted achievements in the agricultural sector, particularly in cassava, ethanol, and oil palm, as well as efforts to develop organized infrastructure to support private sector production.
In terms of the retail sector, Obaseki mentioned ongoing initiatives, including the launch of approximately 60 shops in the Benin Mall by the end of the year. Looking ahead, the governor envisioned a future where the government collaborates closely with the private sector to drive the growth of Edo State’s economy, emphasizing the importance of organized infrastructure to support this partnership.