Why Kaduna tops IGR ranking in North — KADIRS boss

Governor Uba Sani’s initiatives aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and broadening the tax net have significantly boosted internal revenue generation in Kaduna State.

This progress was highlighted by the Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Mr. Jerry Adams, during a press briefing over the weekend.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Kaduna State was recognized as the subnational entity with the highest revenue generation in 2023, accumulating N62.49 billion in internally generated revenue (IGR).

This figure places Kaduna at the forefront of revenue earners in northern Nigeria.

Mr. Adams attributed this achievement to the automation of tax administration under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership. The implementation of the “Pay Kaduna Portal,” a One-Stop-Tax portal, allows citizens to pay their taxes online, eliminating the need to visit tax offices physically.

He noted that this automation has effectively reduced leakages within the tax system, making it easier for taxpayers to fulfill their obligations.

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The KADIRS Executive Chairman emphasized that the current administration has expanded the tax net without increasing tax rates, adopting a horizontal approach to tax collection since July of last year.

This strategy contrasts with the previous vertical approach that led to stagnation in revenue generation.

Mr. Adams further stated that the Uba Sani administration’s policies are designed with a human face, contributing to a more business-friendly environment that has encouraged companies that previously left Kaduna to return.

He pointed out that the government’s rural transformation initiatives have also improved voluntary tax compliance, as citizens can see the tangible benefits of their contributions through ongoing development projects, including road construction and new schools.

The motto of KADIRS, “Tax For Service,” reflects the administration’s commitment to utilizing tax revenues for public service improvements.

Mr. Adams urged the citizens of Kaduna State to pay their taxes promptly, particularly Property Tax and Ground Rents, while encouraging companies to remit Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes on time.

He expressed confidence that with continued support from the Governor, KADIRS can further enhance its tax collection efforts and boost the state’s IGR.