Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved a new tax bill for transmission to the State House of Assembly for consideration and passage into law ahead of the January 1, 2026 implementation of the new national tax reform.

The approval was granted at the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting presided over by the governor on Tuesday.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo said the proposed legislation aligns with the state’s commitment to harmonising its fiscal policies with the federal tax reforms scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Mr Ajulo, SAN, explained that the bill was designed to ensure state’s tax framework operates in conformity with national standards as outlined in the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 and other related reforms.

According to him, the legislation seeks to promote efficiency, transparency, and sustainable revenue generation, while also providing relief for low-income earners and small businesses.

He added that the approval represents a proactive step toward integrating Ondo State into Nigeria’s evolving national tax landscape.

“By adopting these measures, the state aims to foster economic growth, improve public service delivery, and create a more equitable tax environment that supports businesses and individuals alike.

“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,” Mr Ajulo stated.

Meanwhile, the State Executive Council (SEC) has approved the appointment of Owei Kekemeke as the pioneer Amananawei of Agadagda-Obon in the Ese Odo Local Government Area.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, said that the government was prepared to fill vacant traditional stools across the state once affected communities complete their selection processes.

Mr Takuro also confirmed that warrant chiefs had been approved for the appointment of a new Alade Okun of Alade in the Idanre Local Government Area, paving the way for the installation of a new monarch.

In a related development, the state government announced Monday, January 5, 2026, as the official resumption date for civil servants in the state.

The Head of Service, Bayo Philip, said the decision followed 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 already been declared a
public holiday by the federal government.

Mr Philip described the move 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.