The Edo Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) said the service has generated N93 billion in revenue under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.

The agency said that N52.6 billion of the figure was generated in the first half of the year.

The chairman of EIRS, Oladele Bankole-Balogun, disclosed this in Benin City on Wednesday.

Mr Bankole-Balogun said that the impressive feat demonstrated the effectiveness of the administration’s tax reforms and strategies.

He stated, “Under Okpebholo’s leadership, Edo has witnessed a significant increase in IGR, with the EIRS generating over N86 billion in revenue as of October. This growth reflects the administration’s efforts to improve tax collection efficiency, expand the tax net, and promote economic development.’’

Mr Bankole-Balogun further disclosed that EIRS had implemented a digital platform for seamless tax collection, expanded the Edo Revenue Administration System (ERAS), and integrated revenue-generating MDAs into a unified digital platform.

“The EIRS introduced a digital platform to streamline tax collection, reducing the risk of double or multiple taxation. Through ERAS, taxpayers can now remit taxes electronically, receiving e-government receipts instantly,” he said.

Mr Bankole-Balogun also said that the innovation had improved tax compliance, increased revenue, and enhanced transparency.

According to him, EIRS prioritises transparency and accountability in tax collection, leveraging technology to track revenue collections in real time and minimise leakages.

He said the agency had also phased out manual receipts and introduced periodic third-party audits to ensure accountability.

Mr Bankole-Balogun said the measures demonstrated the administration’s commitment to good governance and prudent management of public resources.

He said, “EIRS is committed to taxpayer engagement, prioritising voluntary compliance through sustained public enlightenment and stakeholder engagement.

“The agency has also introduced measures to simplify tax payment processes, making it easier for taxpayers to fulfil their obligations.” 

The EIRS boss said that the government had embarked on tax collection reforms, focusing on transparency, efficiency, and technology-driven solutions.

“These reforms aim to boost revenue, improve tax compliance, and promote economic growth,” he said.

He further said that EIRS has automated revenue collection, enhanced efficiency and reduced leakages.

According to him, the innovation has reduced the risk of disputes and provided a seamless experience for taxpayers.

He said, “This reflects the administration’s commitment to taxpayer satisfaction. As of today, Edo has over 1.98 million registered taxpayers in our database, comprising individuals, businesses, and corporate entities.

“Our target is to expand the net further with high net-worth individuals before the end of the year, to assist largely with the changes that would come into effect by January 1, 2026, with the commencement of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act.’’

He, however, pointed out that between January and September, about 560 default cases were referred to the agency’s legal department for prosecution, securing a number of convictions. 

(NAN)