From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) has commenced a taxpayer sensitisation campaign on the state’s new tax laws, engaging stakeholders in the Kogi Central Senatorial District to improve public understanding and encourage compliance.The initiative began with a town-hall meeting in Okene on Thursday and is expected to extend to the remaining two senatorial districts.
Representing the Executive Chairman of KGIRS, Dr Sule Salihu Enehe, the Director of Legal Services, Barrister Abubakar-Aliyu Bala, said the agency had embraced provisions of the new tax laws aimed at reducing multiple taxation and supporting small businesses and low-income earners. He said the reforms were guided by the principle of “taxing prosperity, not poverty,” adding that the Service was committed to promoting a fair and inclusive tax system.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue, Dr Rahman Nasir Ichanyi, said the reforms were also designed to eliminate illegal roadblock revenue collection and establish clearer tax administration procedures. He assured participants that their concerns would be communicated to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for consideration. The Director of MDAs at KGIRS, Hajia Hassanat Enehezei Salawu, explained key provisions of the new tax laws and responded to questions from participants.
Stakeholders from the informal sector raised concerns about unreliable electricity and inadequate infrastructure, saying the challenges were affecting business growth and their ability to meet tax obligations.They called for improved power supply and infrastructure to boost productivity, expand businesses and strengthen the state’s revenue base.
