Kaduna State has emerged as the leading northern state in Nigeria, in terms of internally generated revenue (IGR) for 2023, amassing an impressive ₦62.48 billion.
This figure marks a notable increase from the previous year’s revenue of ₦58 billion.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently released this report, underscoring the resilience of specific states amid ongoing economic challenges.
Jerry Adams, Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service, credited the state’s revenue growth to the policies of Governor Uba Sani‘s administration, which has focused on financial inclusion and expanding the tax base.
Additionally, the reorganization of the revenue service has significantly contributed to this increase.
Adams remarked that it is not surprising for Kaduna State to be recognized as the subnational entity with the highest revenue generation in 2023, attributing much of the success to the automation of tax administration and the provision of essential tools to enhance processes.
He highlighted the introduction of the “Pay Kaduna Portal,” a one-stop online platform that allows citizens to pay their taxes from anywhere without needing to visit tax offices in person.
This automation has effectively minimized revenue leakages, enabling taxpayers to easily pay various taxes, including Withholding Tax and Stamp Duty Tax.
Furthermore, Adams noted that the Sani administration has broadened the tax base without raising tax rates. Since July of last year, KADIRS has shifted its approach from a vertical expansion model, which previously led to stagnation, to a horizontal expansion strategy.
The KADIRS Executive Chairman also emphasized that the overarching policies of the Kaduna State Government have played a crucial role in enhancing its IGR.
He remarked that the human-centered policies of the Uba Sani administration have attracted businesses that had previously left the state, as well as fostered a range of business-friendly initiatives that positively impact revenue generation.
Additionally, Adams pointed out that the government’s rural transformation efforts have improved voluntary tax compliance, as citizens can observe how their tax contributions are utilized.
He reiterated the agency’s motto, “Tax For Service,” highlighting the administration’s commitment to undertaking significant projects in areas such as road construction and education.
He urged residents of Kaduna State to ensure timely payment of taxes, particularly property taxes and ground rents, and called on businesses to remit Pay As You Earn Taxes punctually.
Adams concluded by stating that KADIRS has the potential to further enhance tax collection and boost Kaduna State’s IGR with continued support from the Governor.
