The Borno State Internal Revenue Service (BOIRS) has announced a record revenue generation of N28.3 billion in 2024, exceeding its target by 46%, surpassing the initial target of N19.3 billion.
Bello Alhaji Ibrahim, the executive chairman, made the announcement during a press briefing to newsmen in Maiduguri on Thursday.
According to him, Ibrahim noted that this achievement marks the first full year of their leadership, which began in July 2023.
He also attributed the success to several key strategies, including, among others, creating an enabling environment and freehand to work given by the governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum; public sensitisation; the digitasation of tax collection; and the harmonisation of taxes.
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“Harmonisation streamlined the process for taxpayers and eliminated multiple tax collectors approaching the same businesses,” he explained.
While thanking the governor, Ibrahim also acknowledged the support and acceptance of the people of Borno of the tax system.
“We are deeply grateful to the people of Maiduguri for their overwhelming support,” he said.
He explained that a gradual payment system was introduced, allowing taxpayers to pay at their convenience. A robust invoicing system also ensures accountability.
Despite these successes, challenges were encountered. “We faced resistance from local government areas to the harmonisation program, the impact of the flood disaster, and a decrease in collections from MDAs,” Prof. Ibrahim acknowledged.
However, the agency shifted from enforcement to persuasion, fostering cooperation with the public.
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Looking forward, an ambitious target of N35 billion has been set for 2025, surpassing the state government’s expectation of N25 billion.
“The tax system will continue to evolve, and there will be no added burden on taxpayers,” Ibrahim assured. “Collected revenue will be channelled into projects that directly benefit the people of Borno.”
