The government of Ondo State has introduced a new entertainment tax targeting social and corporate events across the state, a move aimed at boosting internally generated revenue (IGR) and regulating the event industry.
Under the new policy announced by the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS), organisers of private social events such as weddings, burial ceremonies, naming ceremonies and birthday celebrations will now pay between ₦20,000 and ₦25,000 as entertainment levy before hosting such events in the state. Corporate gatherings, conferences and other business-related events will attract a higher flat fee of ₦50,000 per event.
The Acting Chairman of ODIRS, Bayo Rojugbokan, explained that the new tax forms part of the state government’s broader fiscal reforms designed to expand revenue and support development projects. According to him, the policy is also intended to simplify tax administration and encourage voluntary compliance among event organisers and venue operators.
The administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said increased internally generated revenue remains a key driver for funding infrastructure and public services across the state. Authorities also warned that event planners, celebrants and owners of event centres must comply with the new tax structure to avoid possible penalties from the revenue agency.
However, the policy has sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians, particularly on social media, where critics argue that the levy could increase the cost of organising social ceremonies at a time when many households are already facing rising economic pressure. Others, meanwhile, believe the measure could help strengthen government revenue if properly implemented and transparently managed.