THE Borno State Internal Revenue Service (BOIRS) has announced a record revenue generation of N28.3 billion in 2024 surpassing its initial target of N19.3 billion or by 46%,
The Executive Chairman of the Service, Prof. Bello Alhaji Ibrahim, made the announcement during a press briefing at the conference hall of the BOIRS Headquarters in Maiduguri on Thursday, 27 February 2025.
Prof. Ibrahim noted that this achievement marks the first full year of his leadership, which began in July 2023.
The EC also attributed the success to several key strategies, including creating an enabling environment and freehand to work given by the governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum; public sensitisation; the digitalization of tax collection; and the harmonization of taxes.
“Harmonization streamlined the process for taxpayers and eliminated multiple tax collectors approaching the same businesses,” he explained.
While thanking the governor of Borno State, he also acknowledged the support and acceptance of the people of the residents of the state of the tax system.
“We are deeply grateful to the people of Maiduguri for their overwhelming support,” said Prof. Ibrahim.
He explained that a gradual payment system was introduced allowing taxpayers to pay at their convenience. A robust invoicing system also ensures accountability.
These successes notwithstanding, challenges, according to Prof. Ibrahim, were encountered. “We faced resistance from local government areas to the harmonization programme, the impact of the flood disaster, and a decrease in collections from MDAs,” Prof. Ibrahim acknowledged.
However, the agency said it shifted from enforcement to persuasion, fostering cooperation with the public.
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,” Prof. Ibrahim assured. “Collected revenue will be channelled into projects that directly benefit the people of Borno.
“We thank the people of Borno for their understanding and support,” Prof. Ibrahim concluded, promising to continue fostering a supportive tax environment.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media