Ahead of the January 1, 2026 implementation of the new national tax regime, the Ondo state government has approved a new tax bill for transmission to the State House of Assembly for consideration and passage into law.
The approval was granted at the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting held on Tuesday and presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, said the proposed legislation is in line with the state’s commitment to harmonising its fiscal policies with the forthcoming federal tax reforms scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Ajulo explained that the bill is aimed at ensuring Ondo State’s tax framework aligns with national standards as provided under the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 and other related reforms.
According to him, the proposed law will enhance efficiency, promote transparency and support sustainable revenue generation, while also offering relief to low-income earners and small businesses.
He added that the approval represents a proactive step by the state government towards integrating Ondo State into Nigeria’s evolving national tax system, with the goal of fostering economic growth, improving public service delivery and creating a more equitable tax environment.
“The bill will now proceed to the Ondo State House of Assembly for legislative review and debate. The government encourages public participation and remains open to constructive feedback from stakeholders,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the state government has appointed Owei Kekemeke as the pioneer Amananawei of Agadagda-Obon in Ese Odo Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, who also spoke after the SEC meeting, said the government is ready to fill all vacant traditional stools once affected communities commence the selection process.
Takuro further confirmed that warrant chiefs have been approved for the appointment of a new Alade Okun of Alade in Idanre Local Government Area, clearing the way for the installation of a new monarch.
On infrastructure development, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Abiola Olawoye, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to advancing key projects across the state.
He disclosed that the Executive Council has approved projects including the 24-kilometre Aboto-Atijere Road and a one-kilometre Sabomi Road, both in Ese Odo Local Government Area.
In a related development, the Ondo State Government has announced Monday, January 5, 2026, as the resumption date for civil servants in the state.
The Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, said the decision follows the declaration of Friday, January 2, as a work-free day to allow workers adequate time to return from the New Year holiday, noting that January 1 had earlier been declared a public holiday by the Federal Government.
Philip described the gesture as a relief for workers and urged civil servants and members of the public to take note of the revised resumption date.
He added that the day would also feature the state’s customary first workday prayer meeting at the Governor’s Office Complex.
