Justice Okoye,FCA, Acting-Chairman, IIRS
As part of growing strategic drive to boost Imo State’s Internally Generated revenue (IGR), a crucial meeting with the Chairman of the Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS), Mr. Remijus Okoye, Commissioner for Finance and Coordinating Economy, Dr. Chuck Chukuemeka; Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Investment, Chief Barr. Rex Anunobi; Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government Dr. Chimezie Amadi, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy affairs, S.A on local Government and Chairman Local Government Service Commission as well as Local Government Area (LGA) Chairmen was held on Tuesday, 28th of January 2025.
In his keynote address at the crucial meeting, the IIRS Chairman, Mr. Remijus Okoye outlined key strategies to enhance revenue collection, emphasising the core mandate of the IIRS, such as; implementation of the signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between IIRS and the LGAs, and the automation of essential tax administration processes as approved by the State Government.
Okoye also highlighted critical challenges in revenue collection, including low compliance levels from taxpayers, influence of associations and trade unions, and revenue leakages.To address these issues, he underscored the need for stronger collaboration between IIRS and the LGAs, particularly in adopting an automated tax platform.
This, he noted, would streamline tax collection, improve compliance, and enhance monitoring across the state. Strengthening this synergy, he added, would provide better visibility into the monthly revenue generated by each LGA.A new system for the collection of daily electronic tickets for transportation and market fees, aimed at improving efficiency and transparency in revenue collection will be deployed across the various LGAs.
Dr. Chimezie Amadi, Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, who spoke on the benefits of the Imo State Social Security Number (IMSSN) initiative, emphasized that training and the resuscitating of training centers across the state will aid in youth empowerment and employment. He stressed that many of the challenges faced by LGAs could be effectively addressed through collaboration amongst stakeholders, ultimately benefiting the state’s economy.
He also revealed ongoing efforts by his ministry to enhance the use of technology for efficient revenue generation.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Finance addressed market taxation in the state, clarifying that while LGAs are responsible for collecting market taxes in local Government markets, the State government retains the authority to collect taxes in markets where the state has made significant investments.
A communiqué on resolutions reached was prepared and signed by the relevant stakeholders, marking a significant step towards strengthening revenue administration in Imo State through digital transformation and intergovernmental collaboration.
