The Executive Chairman of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS), Prince Edwin Okon, has urged taxpayers in the state to embrace voluntary compliance and take an active interest in how public resources are utilised as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Board, Management and staff of CRIRS, Okon congratulated the people of Cross River State and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora, describing the anniversary as a reminder of the nation’s shared identity, resilience and collective responsibility for building a better Nigeria.
He said independence should not only be viewed as a celebration of freedom, but also as a reminder of the responsibility of citizens to contribute to national development, stressing that nation-building requires active participation from individuals, businesses and institutions.
Okon specifically called on taxpayers in Cross River State to regard tax payment as a civic responsibility and a direct contribution to the development they desire for their communities and the state, noting that every tax paid adds to the resources available for public services and infrastructure.
According to him, voluntary tax compliance remains essential to building a sustainable revenue system capable of supporting government programmes and improving the quality of life of citizens.
The CRIRS Chairman assured taxpayers that the Service would continue to regard them as valued partners in progress, pledging sustained engagement and measures to make tax compliance easier, more accessible and responsive to their needs.
“Independence reminds us of our shared identity, our resilience and the responsibility we all have in building a better Nigeria. As we celebrate our freedom, let us remember that nation-building is also about doing our part,” he said.
Okon expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future and urged citizens to remain committed to the growth and development of the country and Cross River State, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in building a more prosperous nation.
He wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, declaring: “Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria! Long live Cross River State! Long live the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service!”
By Achiane Adams
