Kaduna State has emerged as the northern region’s leader in internally generated revenue (IGR) for 2023, with a record N62.48 billion, a notable increase from N58 billion in the previous year, according to the latest report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
This achievement underscores Kaduna’s progress in revenue generation despite economic challenges affecting the region.
The Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Jerry Adams, attributed this growth to Governor Uba Sani’s administration, which has emphasized financial inclusion, tax net expansion, and the modernization of tax administration systems.
“The restructuring of our tax system and the widening of the tax base are key to our success,” Adams noted, praising the governor’s initiatives in automating the tax collection process.
Under the new reforms, KADIRS launched the “Pay Kaduna Portal,” a one-stop tax payment platform that allows citizens to pay their taxes online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to tax offices.
This automation has reduced revenue leakages, making it easier for taxpayers to fulfill their obligations by clicking on options for Withholding Tax, Stamp Duty Tax, and other taxes.
Governor Uba Sani’s approach to expanding the tax net without raising tax rates has led to a broader, more effective revenue system.
Since July 2022, KADIRS has focused on horizontal tax expansion, as opposed to the past’s vertical approach, which previously led to stagnation.
“The administration’s policies are business-friendly and have encouraged companies that had left Kaduna State to return,” Adams said, noting that this has positively impacted the state’s IGR.
Additionally, Adams highlighted the impact of the state’s rural transformation efforts on voluntary tax compliance.
“People see their contributions in action through visible projects like road construction, new schools, and other infrastructure.
Our motto, ‘Tax For Service,’ reflects the administration’s commitment to using revenue for public benefit,” he said.
The Executive Chairman called on residents and businesses to fulfill their tax obligations, particularly property tax and ground rents, and urged companies to ensure timely remittance of Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes.
With the governor’s support, Adams expressed confidence in KADIRS’s ability to further boost Kaduna’s IGR.
