Anambra Ministry of Environment Partners with SIDEC to Address Market Challenges/Vop

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment is set to collaborate with the Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) and the Tax Justice and Governance Platform (TJ&GP) to tackle pressing challenges in markets across the state.

Speaking during a recent engagement, the Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Dr. Felix Odimegwu, commended SIDEC for its advocacy and awareness campaigns. He noted that their efforts are complementing the government’s push to improve Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Odimegwu highlighted the importance of SIDEC’s market sensitization on tax payments and levies, emphasizing that the insights gathered from traders would be instrumental in Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s budget planning and infrastructural development initiatives.

Tax for Service Project Driving Revenue Growth

SIDEC’s Director, Mrs. Ugochi Ehiahunuike, elaborated on the purpose of the visit, stating that the “Tax for Service” project is being implemented in partnership with the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and funded by Oxfam Nigeria. She emphasized that the initiative has significantly contributed to improved revenue collection through surveys, reports, and recommendations. SIDEC aims to strengthen collaboration by disseminating information through dialogue sessions and capacity-building programs in major markets.

A media consultant and member of TJ&GP, Mr. Alfred Ajayi, underscored the project’s impact on increasing the state’s IGR. He stressed that providing essential market infrastructure—including solar-powered lights, fire trucks, modern toilets, overhead water tanks, CCTV cameras, concrete flooring, and transformers—would further encourage tax compliance among traders.

Key Stakeholders Present

The meeting also had in attendance:

Mr. Obodogha Tochukwu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment

Rev. Sister Okeke Monique, Director, EHPC

Prof. Uche Collins Nwaogwugwu, Director, SIDEC

Bruno Chinaecherem, ICT Officer

Chibueze Ughala, Project Officer, SIDEC

Ifeanyi Okonkwo, Reporter, SIDEC

The partnership is expected to enhance market conditions, promote sustainable tax practices, and support economic growth in Anambra State.

( Anambra State Ministry of Environment Media)