IPOKIA – In a significant move to diversify its revenue base, the Ipokia Local Government has initiated a series of engagements with boat operators across its riverine communities. The first phase of this sensitisation meeting was held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at various jetties, including Akere, Ziggi, Agada, and Vawhe Pevi.
The meeting was convened to inform the operators of new developments at the council level and to communicate the government’s decision to involve them in expanding the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). This initiative focuses on exploring previously untapped revenue sources within the marine transport sector.
Council officials emphasised that while the government is committed to boosting IGR, the initiative is not designed to create hardship for the people. Instead, it seeks a collaborative approach, ensuring the direct involvement of operators in determining reasonable, fair, and sustainable levies. The government assured that these levies must not result in increased transport fares or place additional financial burdens on residents.
It was further clarified that the local government will not introduce any policy or demand that would deprive boat operators of their meaningful daily earnings. The revenue generation drive is intended to be mutually beneficial, supporting both the sustainability of marine businesses and the developmental goals of the council.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous agreement to extend this dialogue to more riverine communities within the local government, including Ijofin Jetty, Vawhe Jetty, Idosemo Jetty, and others. The objective is to reach a unified agreement on levies and build a solid financial base for developmental projects across all wards.
The boat operators present at the meeting expressed their appreciation for the inclusive approach and pledged their full cooperation. They acknowledged the administration as their own, elected by them, and committed to supporting its success.
This engagement marks a vital step in the local government’s ongoing efforts to diversify its revenue sources and ensure that no riverine community is left behind in its development agenda.
The council has announced plans to expand this engagement to the following areas in the next two weeks: Vawhe-Gbo Jetty, Tafa Jetty, Whekan Jetty, Aohovo Jetty, Gbao Jetty, Ijofin Jetty, Idosemo, and Kosomi Jetty.
The Office of Media and Public Engagement expressed appreciation for the support shown and the collective desire to contribute meaningfully to the progress of the local government through enhanced revenue generation.
