Effurun - The Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Hon. Chief Anthony Onoriode Ofoni JP, has congratulated the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service (DIRS), Hon. Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, on his conferment with the prestigious Award of Excellence by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Warri and District Society.
Chief Ofoni described the recognition as a well-deserved honour in acknowledgment of Hon. Ighrakpata’s outstanding leadership, commitment to fiscal accountability, institutional transparency, and unwavering support for the accounting profession in Delta State.
The award was presented during the 40th anniversary celebration of ICAN Warri and District Society held at the ICAN Resource Centre in Warri, Delta State.
The colourful ceremony attracted members of the accounting profession, government officials, traditional rulers, business leaders, and stakeholders from different sectors across the state and beyond.
Reacting to the development, Chief Ofoni commended the Delta State Revenue boss for what he described as visionary leadership and dedication to reforming tax administration in the state.
According to the Uvwie council chairman, Hon. Ighrakpata has continued to distinguish himself through policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening internally generated revenue, promoting transparency, and improving efficiency within the Delta State Internal Revenue Service.
Chief Ofoni noted that the award by ICAN further confirms the confidence reposed in Hon. Ighrakpata’s leadership by professionals and stakeholders within the financial and accounting sectors.
He stated that the recognition was not only a personal achievement for the DIRS chairman but also a source of pride for Delta State and public service institutions committed to accountability and excellence.
The Uvwie chairman praised ICAN Warri and District Society for sustaining professionalism, integrity, and ethical standards in the accounting profession over the past four decades.
He noted that the theme of the anniversary celebration, “Four Decades of Excellence: Upholding Professionalism, Building Trust, and Lasting Legacies,” reflects the institute’s enduring commitment to nation-building, transparency, and professional development.
Chief Ofoni also commended the strong partnership between the Delta State Internal Revenue Service and professional bodies such as ICAN, describing the collaboration as vital to promoting fiscal discipline, accountability, and sustainable economic growth.
He expressed optimism that the recognition bestowed on Hon. Ighrakpata would further inspire public servants and administrators to embrace integrity, innovation, and service excellence in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The council chairman further applauded the reform-driven initiatives introduced under the leadership of Hon. Ighrakpata at the Delta State Internal Revenue Service.
According to him, the modernization of tax administration processes, automation of revenue collection systems, staff capacity building, and strategic stakeholder engagement have contributed significantly to improving revenue generation and strengthening public confidence in the tax system.
Chief Ofoni added that the reforms align with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, particularly in the areas of fiscal sustainability, institutional development, and improved service delivery.
He stressed that effective revenue administration remains critical to the implementation of government projects and the overall development of communities across the state.
The Uvwie council chairman therefore urged public institutions and professional organizations to continue working together in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
He described Hon. Ighrakpata as a disciplined and visionary administrator whose commitment to excellence has continued to earn him recognition within and outside Delta State.
Chief Ofoni also congratulated members of ICAN Warri and District Society on the successful celebration of their 40th anniversary, acknowledging the institute’s contributions to mentorship, professional ethics, and human capital development over the years.
He encouraged younger professionals in the accounting and financial sectors to emulate the values of integrity, diligence, and professionalism promoted by ICAN.
Observers at the anniversary celebration had commended Hon. Ighrakpata for his reform-oriented leadership and commitment to institutional transparency since assuming office as Executive Chairman of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service.
They noted that his administration has strengthened the agency’s operational efficiency while expanding collaboration with professional institutions and stakeholders to improve tax compliance and public financial management.
As congratulations continue to pour in from different quarters, many stakeholders have described the Award of Excellence as a fitting recognition of Hon. Ighrakpata’s contributions to public sector reforms, accountability, and economic development in Delta State.
Chief Ofoni concluded by wishing the DIRS chairman continued success in his efforts to strengthen revenue administration and support the developmental aspirations of the Delta State Government.
