The Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PIRS) has announced a significant increase in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for January 2025, collecting over N3.3 billion. This represents a substantial jump from the N1.6 billion generated in January 2024, signaling a promising start towards the agency’s ambitious target of N52 billion for the year. Chairman of PIRS, Dr. Jim Wayas, attributed this achievement to a combination of strategic measures implemented by the service and a growing awareness among Plateau State residents regarding their civic duty to contribute to the state’s development through tax payments. This impressive revenue generation sets a positive tone for the fiscal year and reinforces the PIRS’s commitment to enhancing its revenue collection strategies.
The PIRS’s strategy to achieve its ambitious revenue goals involves a nuanced approach that acknowledges the prevailing economic realities faced by individuals and businesses. Recognizing the challenging economic climate and the struggles faced by many, the PIRS has adopted taxpayer-friendly measures that aim to encourage business growth while simultaneously optimizing revenue collection. Rather than imposing stringent tax burdens that could stifle economic activity, the PIRS has opted for a more balanced approach, focusing on taxing the income generated by businesses rather than the capital itself. This approach is especially beneficial for small and nano businesses, which are often most vulnerable to economic fluctuations. By fostering a supportive environment for these businesses to thrive, the PIRS aims to create a sustainable revenue stream based on economic growth and prosperity rather than squeezing existing resources.
The PIRS’s approach goes beyond simply collecting taxes; it emphasizes the importance of fostering a collaborative relationship between the government and taxpayers. The agency understands that engaging with taxpayers and building trust is crucial for achieving its revenue objectives. By implementing friendly measures and actively engaging with the business community, the PIRS aims to create a sense of shared responsibility in contributing to the state’s development. This ethos fosters a positive relationship between the government and taxpayers, promoting transparency and accountability in revenue management. It underscores the PIRS’s commitment to not just meeting its revenue goals, but also contributing to the overall economic well-being of the state.
A key component of the PIRS’s strategy is its focus on educating taxpayers about the importance of fulfilling their tax obligations. By highlighting the direct link between tax revenue and the provision of essential public services, the agency seeks to cultivate a stronger sense of civic duty and encourage voluntary compliance. This focus on taxpayer education also includes simplifying tax processes and making information readily accessible, reducing the complexities and burdens often associated with tax compliance. The PIRS emphasizes that every tax contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in funding crucial infrastructure projects and public services that benefit all residents.
The PIRS recognizes the challenges posed by the current economic climate, but remains optimistic about its prospects for achieving its ambitious revenue targets. The robust performance in January 2025 provides a solid foundation for continued growth. While acknowledging the economic headwinds, the PIRS is committed to pursuing innovative revenue generation strategies that are both effective and considerate of the challenges faced by businesses and individuals. The agency’s unwavering focus on achieving its N52 billion target for 2025 demonstrates its determination to play a crucial role in funding the state’s development agenda and improving the lives of its citizens.
The significant increase in IGR collected in January 2025 underscores the effectiveness of the PIRS’s strategic initiatives and its commitment to responsible revenue management. This positive start to the year is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the government and taxpayers in working towards a shared vision of a more prosperous and developed Plateau State. By adopting a balanced approach that considers the economic realities, promoting taxpayer education, and diligently pursuing innovative revenue generation strategies, the PIRS is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious revenue targets while simultaneously contributing to the overall economic well-being of the state and its citizens. The success of the PIRS serves as a model for other revenue agencies seeking to enhance their performance while remaining sensitive to the needs of their constituents.
