The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS), in collaboration with the Chairmen of Local Government Areas, successfully concluded a three-day nationwide sensitisation programme on the new tax reform across the three senatorial districts. The initiative brought together government officials, business owners, community leaders, revenue officers, and representatives from Nugi Technologies, who provided technical insights and digital support to enhance the programme’s delivery.
The programme was structured to cover the three senatorial districts over three days:
- Day 1 – Central Senatorial District: Abi, Yakurr, Etung, Boki, Ikom, and Obubra LGAs
- Day 2 – Northern Senatorial District: Obanliku, Yala, Bekwarra, Ogoja, and Obudu LGAs
- Day 3 – Southern Senatorial District: Calabar Municipal, Calabar South, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Odukpani, Akamkpa, and Biase LGAs
The sessions were designed to educate stakeholders on the objectives, benefits, and practical implications of the new tax reform. They also provided a platform for open dialogue, allowing participants to ask questions, raise concerns, and gain clarity on compliance procedures.
Key topics covered during the events included:
- The implications of the new tax framework for individuals and businesses
- The critical role of Local Government authorities in grassroots implementation
- The importance of updating and maintaining accurate taxpayer data to improve transparency and efficiency
- The role of digitalisation in tax administration, including registration, payments, and record-keeping
- The necessity of obtaining and using a Tax Identification Number (Tax ID)
- The importance of accurate financial bookkeeping, especially for SMEsThe emergence of the Tax Ombudsman to protect taxpayer rights and handle complaints
The three-day programme reaffirmed CRIRS’s commitment to building a transparent, efficient, and people-focused tax system across Cross River State. By engaging stakeholders across multiple locations, and with support from partners like Nugi Technologies, the Service continues to strengthen trust, promote voluntary compliance, and support sustainable economic growth.
Participants praised the initiative and called for more regular sensitisation programmes to deepen public understanding of tax policies and their role in driving development.
Through these continuous efforts, CRIRS is reinforcing the message that paying taxes is not just a civic duty but a crucial contribution to the state’s infrastructure, social services, and overall progress.
