By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Inland Revenue Service (EIRS) Board, led by its Executive Chairman Mr. John Odior, has affirmed the agency’s commitment to strategic collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to enhance the state’s revenue mandate.
This was disclosed by Courage Eboigbe, Head, Corporate Communications and Taxpayers Enlightenment Services Department in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City, Edo State capital.
Eboigbe stated that during a familiarization visit to the Edo State Comptroller of the NIS in Benin City, Mr. Odior emphasized that national development remains a collective responsibility transcending institutional boundaries. Central to this partnership is the establishment of a robust data-sharing framework, which the Chairman identified as a critical component for accurate economic planning and revenue projection.
Mr. Odior further highlighted the necessity of ensuring comprehensive tax compliance among expatriates and immigration officers alike, bringing them effectively into the tax net through diligent filing of individual returns. A key proposal discussed was the integration of the Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) as a mandatory requirement for the processing of international passport applications, a move intended to strengthen fiscal discipline. By advocating for seamless information sharing and inter-agency synergy, the EIRS Chairman expressed optimism that such cooperation would yield significant mutual benefits for both organizations.
During the engagement, the Revenue boss also conducted an educational session for immigration officers, clarifying the jurisdictional distinctions between taxes collectible by federal and state authorities, the new tax Acts and tax clearance certificate.
He further noted that the Edo State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended revenue collection within the transport sector as a proactive measure to alleviate the financial burden on motorists and commuters.
In his response, the State Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Steve Okezie Ibeabuchi, acknowledged the fundamental role of taxation in societal advancement and assured the EIRS leadership of the Command’s full support and cooperation in achieving these shared objectives.