Edo State has recorded N52.6 billion in internally generated revenue between January and June 2025. The Chairman of the Edo State Inland Revenue Service (EIRS), Otunba Oladele Bankole-Balogun, disclosed this on Thursday during a press briefing on the agency’s half-year performance.
He said the new figure represents a 46% increase compared to the N36.1 billion generated in the same period last year. Bankole-Balogun credited the growth to several reforms, including the automation of tax collection, staff training, and policy continuity from previous EIRS boards.
He also noted that early disputes with private schools and burrow pit operators had been resolved, contributing to smoother operations. In addition, collaboration with the judiciary played a key role in recovering tax debts owed to the state government.
The EIRS chairman announced that 1,900 new individuals were added to the tax net within the six-month period. While acknowledging that capturing everyone is a gradual process, he said more focus would now shift to high-income earners under the new tax laws signed by President Bola Tinubu.
Bankole-Balogun stressed the importance of public enlightenment so that taxpayers can understand their obligations under the new reforms. He described taxation as a patriotic responsibility, not a burden, urging residents to support the government’s drive for a stronger and more transparent tax system.
He concluded by stating that EIRS will keep improving its strategies through technology and partnerships to build a sustainable Edo State where tax revenue directly supports development and citizens see tangible results.
