Edo Generates Over ₦93 Billion in IGR Under Okpebholo, Revenue Chairman Reveals

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), Otunba Oladele Bankole-Balogun, says the state has generated more than ₦93 billion in internally generated revenue (IGR) since Governor Monday Okpebholo assumed office.

Speaking while reviewing the administration’s first year in office, Bankole-Balogun said the increase in revenue was driven by reforms aimed at improving tax collection, blocking leakages and expanding the state’s tax base.

According to him, the Edo State Internal Revenue Service has also strengthened its digital tax collection system, making it easier for individuals and businesses to pay taxes while reducing opportunities for illegal collections.

He explained that the agency upgraded its Edo State Revenue Administration System (ERAS) to allow real-time monitoring of revenue collections and integrated revenue-generating ministries, departments and agencies into a single digital platform.

The revenue chairman said taxpayers now receive electronic receipts through approved payment channels, a move he said has improved transparency and reduced the chances of multiple taxation.

Read Also: 560 Edo Tax Defaulters Face Prosecution as Government Tightens Enforcement

More Than One Million Taxpayers Registered

Bankole-Balogun disclosed that Edo State currently has over 1,009,000 registered taxpayers, including individuals, businesses and corporate organisations.

He said the revenue service plans to register more taxpayers, particularly high-net-worth individuals, ahead of the implementation of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act expected to take effect in 2027.

According to him, broadening the tax net remains one of the agency’s priorities as the government seeks to improve revenue without placing unnecessary pressure on compliant taxpayers.

Technology Helping to Reduce Revenue Leakages

The EIRS chairman said technology has become a major tool in tackling revenue leakages across the state.

He noted that manual receipts have largely been phased out and replaced with electronic payment systems, while internal audit processes and regular account reconciliation have been strengthened.

He added that the agency also works with security agencies and other government institutions to prevent illegal revenue collections and enforce compliance where necessary.

Over 500 Tax Default Cases Sent for Prosecution

Bankole-Balogun revealed that between January and September 2025, about 560 tax default cases were referred to the agency’s legal department after efforts to encourage voluntary compliance failed.

He said although the revenue service prefers dialogue and taxpayer education, it will continue to apply the law against persistent tax defaulters where necessary.

According to him, some convictions have already been secured, while enforcement continues against individuals and organisations that fail to meet their tax obligations.

“Paying Tax Helps Government Deliver More”

The EIRS chairman called on Edo residents and business owners to support the state’s development by paying their taxes through approved government channels.

He said taxes remain one of the major sources of funding for roads, schools, healthcare, security and other public services, urging taxpayers to see compliance as a civic responsibility rather than a burden.

Bankole-Balogun added that the revenue service would continue to improve its systems to make tax payment easier, more transparent and more convenient for residents.