The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has reaffirmed its renewed efforts in leveraging cutting-edge technology and effective advocacy to significantly enhance the state’s revenue generation.
Daily Trust recalls that the state earned N179.912 billion as internally generated revenue (IGR) in the first quarter of 2023, a drop of N81.55bn from its projected N261.463bn for the quarter, according to the state’s Budget Performance Appraisal.
However, the Executive Chairman, LIRS, Mr Ayodele Subair, while speaking in an interview on The Tax Talk, a newly launched 30-minute public enlightenment television programme on taxation, noted that the use of technology has helped the agency optimise its operations while also enhancing revenue generation for the state.
He lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for introducing the use of technology in the generation of the state revenue during his tenure as the state governor.
- We’re yet to receive N26.5bn housing fund – FMBN
- FMDQ approves review of Eunisell CP Programme to N20bn
According to him, past governors such as Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and the current governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also made effort in upholding the autonomy of LIRS which has led to a notable level of effectiveness.
“If we did not introduce technology, no doubt, we’re going to have very, very limited success. We have our e-tax and we also have our IBILE hub software to take care of the informal sector. One of the key features of the IBILE hub software is that it allows installmental payments from members of the sector”.
The LIRS chairman said the use of advocacy has also played a big role in its tax administration, as the agency makes it a priority to always engage taxpayers and stakeholders.
