By THEANALYSTNG
The Kogi State Project Steering Committee Chairman of VAT Direct Initiative (VDI), operating under the auspices of the Market Traders Association of Nigeria (MATAN), Mallam Zuberu Adopisa Mustafa, has expressed appreciation for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s dedication to addressing the concerns of market traders.
Addressing participants at the training and inauguration of agents on VAT Direct Initiative (VDI) held at the Federal University Auditorium, Adankolo, Lokoja on Friday, Mustafa underscored Governor Ododo’s unwavering commitment to improving the livelihoods of market traders and expanding educational opportunities for Kogi youths.
He said event signifies a pivotal step to modernizing and streamlining revenue management in Kogi State.
“The Integrated Market Revenue Management System is a bold and innovative approach to designed to address challenges in revenue collection by leveraging technology to improve transparency, accountability and efficiency.
“The VAT Direct Initiative aligns perfectly with this vision, focusing on optimizing VAT compliance and collection in a manner that supports the growth of our businesses and ensures that resources are utilized for the benefit of all,” Mustafa stressed.
He urged trainees to serve as exemplary ambassadors of MATAN, emphasizing that the effective collection of VAT from over 40 million traders would enable the government to enhance basic amenities in marketplaces across the nation.
He urged agents present at the event to sensitize members of various market associations to ensure their inclusion in the VAT Direct Initiative (VDI).
The training workshop in Kogi State also included the issuance of Provisional Letters of Appointment to Local Government Project Managers (Trade), underscoring the commitment to the effective implementation of the VAT Direct Initiative.
In her own remarks, the Kogi State Iyaloja General, Chief Linda Ojongbede said the training of agents signify a promising future for trading in Kogi State.
“With the unequivocal support of the state’s leadership and a unified front among traders, the association is poised to make substantial contributions to the state’s economy.
“The commitment to capacity-building and unity sets the stage for sustainable growth and prosperity among traders in Kogi State,” she added.
