Benue Assembly Passes Revenue Consolidation Law to Streamline Taxation
The Benue State House of Assembly has passed the State Revenue Service Consolidation and Harmonised Law, a legislative measure aimed at overhauling the state’s tax administration system. The law was approved unanimously during a plenary session on Tuesday, presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Alfred Emberga.
This legislative action follows a recent public hearing where stakeholders from various sectors provided input on the proposed bill. According to a statement from the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Michael Upaa, the new law is designed to enhance revenue collection efficiency and improve government expenditure. A key objective is to ensure collected funds are strategically directed toward citizen-focused projects, including healthcare, education, and public infrastructure development.
Hon. Mathew Damkor, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Finance, explained that the law directly addresses persistent issues such as multiple taxation, overlapping tax authorities, and unclear tax obligations for businesses and individuals. By consolidating revenue agencies and harmonizing procedures, the framework seeks to create a more transparent and predictable business environment.
Also during the session, two other significant bills advanced. The Benue State Agency for International Cooperation and Development Bill, sponsored by Hon. Douglas Akya (Makurdi South), and the Road Traffic Management and Vehicle Inspection Bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Hon. Thomas Dugeri (Kwande West), both received a second reading. Furthermore, the Benue State Security Trust Fund Bill, sponsored by Hon. Sir Thomas Terzungwe Dugeri (Kwande West), was read for the first time.
The passage of the Revenue Service Consolidation Law marks a pivotal step in Benue State’s fiscal reform agenda. By aiming to reduce bureaucratic duplication and clarify tax liabilities, the legislation is expected to bolster internally generated revenue, reduce reliance on federal allocations, and ultimately support sustainable development projects across the state. The progress of the other bills indicates a broader legislative push to strengthen institutional frameworks for cooperation, transportation management, and internal security financing.
