RMAFC recommends Awala Dam, others for Osun to boost IGR  

SEGUN ADEYEMI, Osogbo

The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has advised Governor Rauf Aregbesola to utilise opportunities offered by the Awala Dam, the defunct cocoa industry in Ede and other natural resources in the state to boost the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).

According to a statement made available to newsmen in Osogbo yesterday by the Press Officer of the Osun State Ministry of Finance, Mr. Ambaliyu Bolarinwa, the leader of a delegation of members of Fiscal Efficiency and Budget under the RMAFC, Mr. Sanya Omirin, gave this advice during their visit to the state.

Omirin said the dam, which is about 14 kilometres in length, could be used to develop fish farming, irrigation and for building of a resort.

He added that the state could also take advantage of the Osun River and Alekuwodo stream to boost tourism and realise more money for the state.

Another leader of the committee, Chief Amodu Alhaji, also advised the government to resuscitate the moribund cocoa industry to create jobs for hundreds of youths in the state.

“The cocoa industry, if resuscitated, could provide jobs for many youths. From there, there will be production of cocoa cake, liquor, powder and cocoa butters.

“The resuscitation of the industry can also make the state to retain its position as one of the best cocoa producing states in the country.”

Amodu, while referring to the numerous achievements of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, said he performed so creditably well and made the defunct Western Nigeria the envy of many nations.

The RMAFC urged public servants and residents of the state to support the governor in his efforts to generate more fund to develop the state.