The Borno State Internal Revenue Service (BOIRS) has announced a record revenue generation of N28.3 billion in 2024, exceeding its target by 46%, surpassing the initial target of N19.3 billion.
The Executive Chairman, Prof. Bello Alhaji Ibrahim, made the announcement during a press briefing at the conference hall of the BOIRS Headquarters in Maiduguri on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
Prof. Ibrahim noted that this achievement marks the first full year of their leadership, which began in July 2023.
The EC also attributed the success to several key strategies, including, among others, creating an enabling environment and freehand to work given by the governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum; public sensitisation; the digitazation of tax collection; and the harmonisation of taxes.
“Harmonisation streamlined the process for taxpayers and eliminated multiple tax collectors approaching the same businesses,” he explained.
While thanking the governor of Borno State, he also acknowledged the support and acceptance of the people of Borno of the tax system.
“We are deeply grateful to the people of Maiduguri for their overwhelming support,” said Prof. Bello Alhaji Ibrahim.
He explained that a gradual payment system was introduced, allowing taxpayers to pay at their convenience. A robust invoicing system also ensures accountability.
Despite these successes, challenges were encountered. “We faced resistance from local government areas to the harmonisation program, the impact of the flood disaster, and a decrease in collections from MDAs,” Prof. Ibrahim acknowledged.
However, the agency shifted from enforcement to persuasion, fostering cooperation with the public.
Looking forward, an ambitious target of N35 billion has been set for 2025, surpassing the state government’s expectation of N25 billion.
“The tax system will continue to evolve, and there will be no added burden on taxpayers,” Prof. Ibrahim assured. “Collected revenue will be channelled into projects that directly benefit the people of Borno.”
“We thank the people of Borno for their understanding and support,” Prof. Ibrahim concluded, promising to continue fostering a supportive tax environment.
