● Chelsea Chinenye
The Chairman of Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESiRS), Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani, has announced that the State has successfully tackled the issue of multiple taxation with the introduction of a unified yearly tax payment system. According to him, the innovative e-Ticketing Solution allows business owners in the informal sector to make a single payment annually, eliminating the need for multiple payments to various revenue-generating agencies. He announced this today while addressing the media in his office.
Nnamani explained that the system is designed to provide a more business-friendly environment in Enugu, especially for the informal sector. “Enugu has the most friendly tax environment. One of the things we’re known for is the e-Ticket, a unified tax collection system. Once anybody in the informal sector pays through the e-Ticket, nobody comes to ask for tax from that person again,” Nnamani stated.
He emphasized the simplicity of the system, noting its implementation in all markets across the state. “For instance, in all the markets in Enugu State, you pay once in a year, and nobody disturbs you again in terms of revenue. With this system, business owners can operate freely, knowing exactly what they are supposed to pay without the worry of being harassed for additional payments,” he added.
Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani (middle) flanked on his right by Mr. Sam Udekwe, NUJ Chairman Enugu State Council and other journalists
A local business owner, Mrs. Ifeoma Nweke, praised the development, noting that the e-Ticketing system has brought relief to many traders in the state. “Before now, we had to deal with different agencies demanding various taxes, but this single payment system has made things much easier for us. It allows us to focus on our businesses without the constant disruption,” she said.
The ESiRS Chairman also pointed out that the formal sector benefits from a similar system. He introduced the Consolidated Demand Notice, which combines payments such as Land Use Charge and ESWAMA bills into one notice. “With one single demand notice, business owners can choose to pay monthly, quarterly, or annually. The goal is to ensure businesses do better because when businesses thrive, the economy thrives,” Nnamani remarked.
Another stakeholder, Mr. Chukwuma Eze, commended the government’s efforts but called for stronger measures to eliminate touting in the state’s revenue collection processes. “While the e-Ticketing system is a welcome development, I urge the government to ensure that touts are removed from the revenue collection chain. This will further improve the ease of doing business in Enugu,” he appealed.
Addressing concerns about the efficiency of tax payment in Enugu, Nnamani assured residents that the system is one of the most efficient in the country. “Our tax payment process is not cumbersome. You can negotiate how you want to pay, whether it’s once, quarterly, or monthly. Even in the informal sector, we allow flexibility in payments, which makes the process easier for businesses,” he explained.
Mr. Nnamani reiterated that the system promotes growth by making the business environment conducive for entrepreneurs. “If businesses are redundant, tax generation would be redundant. Our aim is to create a system that supports business growth, which in turn boosts tax revenue and the overall economy,” he said.
Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani (R) addressing the journalists on Monday, October 21, 2024
The introduction of the e-Ticketing Solution is seen as a game-changer for Enugu State’s revenue generation, positioning it as a model for other states to follow. Many hope that with continuous improvements, especially in eliminating touting, the state’s business environment will continue to thrive. GMTNewsng
