Kaduna State has emerged as the northern leader in internally generated revenue (IGR), with recent reforms cited as the driving force behind this accomplishment. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports Kaduna collected N62.49 billion in 2023, positioning it at the top of IGR rankings in the region.

According to Jerry Adams, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), this success stems from tax policy reforms implemented under Governor Uba Sani. These include financial inclusion initiatives, tax net expansion, and reorganization of KADIRS to streamline processes. Adams highlighted the governor’s introduction of a “Pay Kaduna Portal,” an online platform that enables residents to pay taxes from any location, which he says has minimized revenue leakage.

“By simply clicking on the relevant tax icon, citizens can fulfill obligations such as withholding tax and stamp duty payments,” Adams noted. The tax agency, he added, has been expanding its reach horizontally rather than vertically, which has fostered growth rather than stagnation.

Policies focusing on business-friendly environments have encouraged the return of companies that had previously exited Kaduna, further bolstering the state’s economic standing. Additionally, visible infrastructure projects in rural areas have improved voluntary tax compliance, as residents see tangible results from their contributions. “Our motto, ‘Tax for Service,’ is evident in projects like new roads, schools, and other essential facilities,” Adams remarked.

KADIRS continues to urge timely tax payments, particularly for property tax and Pay As You Earn (PAYE) contributions from businesses. With sustained government support, Adams expressed confidence in the agency’s capacity to further increase revenue, enhancing Kaduna’s economic stability.