Gov Bassey Otu
By Anietie Akpan
Cross River State Government is inching closer to hitting its projected Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of N75 billion by next year.
Findings by Pillar Today showed that in July this year, the IGR of the state hit N6.3 billion and in August the figure progressed geometrically to N9 billion.
To achieve this target however, the State Governor Senator Bassey Otu in a press release by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill on Friday, said the state government is strategically positioned to boost IGR.
Governor Otu reiterated the need for the newly inaugurated members of the Cross River Board of Internal Revenue Service (CRBIRS) to position themselves professionally to increase the state’s IGR.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor at the opening of a two-day induction workshop for the State’s Internal Revenue Board members at Monty Suites, Calabar, on Thursday, the Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the board’s efforts in driving revenue growth.
He however pointed out that tax evasion is predominantly practiced by the upper echelons of society, stating, “my presence here underscores the level of trust and support this government has for the board.
“We envision a state that works for all its people. We are working tirelessly to create opportunities, and to do more, we need our citizens to pay their taxes promptly”.
The Executive Chairman of the CRSIRS, Mr. Edwin Okon, stressed the importance of equipping board members with the right knowledge to manage the tax system effectively.
He noted that the workshop was crucial for ensuring members are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
A Facilitator at the workshop, Barr. Chukwuemeka Eze, in his presentation on “Tax Dispute Resolution: Administration and Judiciary Perspectives”, emphasized the need to demystify taxation, making it accessible and understandable for all.
He also urged board members to avoid political interference, stating, “the board’s work is professional. If we want results, we must engage competent individuals and steer clear of political decisions, which should be left to the executive.”
Dr. Esien Ukorebi, speaking on “Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in Nigeria”, highlighted the importance of clear policy communication to ensure successful tax collection, while Dr. Eyo Itam, in his presentation on “Digital Economy: The Future of the Tax Profession”, urged the board to explore technology-driven strategies to enhance tax generation.
He emphasized that as the world rapidly evolves, the board must be proactive in leveraging new avenues for revenue collection.
The workshop marks a significant step in the state’s drive to boost its IGR through innovation, professionalism, and efficient tax collection processes.
Pillar Today recalled that the State’s Commissioner for Information, Dr Erasmus Ekpang had in August said if the rising trend is sustained, the state’s IGR is projected to reach N75.6 billion within the next year, more than doubling the N31.4 billion collected in 2022.
