● Correspondent-at-Large
The Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESiRS) received national recognition on Friday, October 11, 2024, as it clinched the “Best State Revenue Agency in ICT Integration” award at an event organized by the Bureau for Public Service Reform (BPSR) in Abuja. In addition, the Chairman of ESiRS, Mr. Ekene Nnamani, was honored with the “GovTech Trailblazer” award, marking the first such accolades for both the agency and its chairman since the Governor Peter Mbah administration took office.
The BPSR, under the leadership of its Director-General, Mr. D. I. Arabi, selected ESiRS for these awards based on its successful integration of technology in revenue collection and its role in supporting development projects across the state. The reforms in tax collection have significantly contributed to funding numerous projects, including the completion of abandoned ones such as the International Conference Centre and the Hotel Presidential, which have further enhanced Enugu State’s infrastructure and social services.
Speaking on the dual honors, Mr. Nnamani expressed gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility. “I feel good and believe this award is just a call on us to do greater things for Ndi Enugu regarding revenue collection technology and innovation,” he said. He added that the recognition reflects the broader progress being made under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah. “It means that Enugu State is already placed on a height. We have to continue in great performance regarding technology and innovation to elevate the view further.”
Mr. Nnamani dedicated the awards to Governor Mbah, whose transformational leadership has driven the state’s advancements. “This is dedicated to the Transformational Governor Peter Mbah for his great vision for Enugu State, which is driving every aspect of our performance and activities,” he said, underscoring the governor’s role in creating an environment where tax revenues are judiciously used for development.
The recognition by the BPSR comes amid a flurry of development projects currently underway across Enugu State. Notable projects include road construction, healthcare improvements, and the rehabilitation of long-abandoned infrastructure. These efforts, largely funded by the state’s growing tax revenues, have received widespread commendation for contributing to the state’s growth.
Several prominent stakeholders praised the awards, linking them to the ongoing projects. A leading Enugu-based civil engineer, Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwu, emphasized the visible transformation in the state. “The roads, hospitals, and schools we see coming up across Enugu State show that the revenue being generated is being utilized in a way that benefits everyone. It’s no surprise that BPSR recognized ESiRS for its role in driving this development,” he remarked.
Mr. Ugwu’s sentiments were echoed by Mrs. Amaka Onu, a local entrepreneur, who highlighted the impact of the projects on businesses. “When the government reinvests tax revenues into projects that improve roads, businesses thrive. Enugu has become a more conducive environment for growth, and we owe much of this to the increased efficiency in revenue collection,” she said, crediting the ESiRS for its technology-driven approach.
However, some have noted the challenges associated with the growing tax drive. Mr. Chidi Okafor, a business owner on Ogui road, Enugu, voiced concerns about the burden placed on taxpayers. “While we appreciate the government’s efforts, the tax drive has put pressure on small businesses. It would be helpful to see more tax incentives or breaks for small-scale traders,” Okafor said, reflecting a critical perspective on the administration’s tax policies.
Nonetheless, others see the broader picture. Mr. Daniel Ede, an education advocate, argued that the visible progress made through the reinvestment of tax revenues justifies the push for higher compliance. “Yes, paying taxes can be challenging, but when we see the government building new smart schools and existing ones being renovated and new classrooms being built, it becomes easier to understand why it’s necessary. The award from BPSR is well-deserved because it shows that our taxes are making a difference,” he said.
Mr. Arabi, the Director-General of BPSR, commended the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service for its role in driving these transformations through technology. Enugu State, through the internal revenue service, is showing the way forward for other states in Nigeria.
As Enugu State continues to make strides in development, the accolades for ESiRS and its chairman signal a commitment to driving innovation in revenue collection. With Governor Mbah’s administration at the helm, the state looks set to achieve even greater heights, ensuring that tax revenues are effectively used to fuel growth and development across all sectors.
The awards serve as an encouragement for the ESiRS team to keep up the momentum and further enhance its revenue collection processes. “This recognition only motivates us to do more. The people of Enugu deserve the best, and we will keep working to ensure that every kobo collected is put to good use for their benefit,” Mr. Nnamani concluded. GMTNewsng
