Enugu: The Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS) has recruited over 200 staff in a bold move to eliminate loopholes in tax payment and enhance revenue collection in order to boost massive infrastructural developments across the state.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Chidiebere Onyia, addressed the new employees at a strategic training programme held at the Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu. The training was conducted by Price Waterhouse Cooper, a professional services firm. The governor urged the recruits to ensure the success of the state’s revenue drive, emphasizing the government’s commitment to significant investments, such as over one billion naira in Smart Green School projects across the 260 electoral wards.
The governor highlighted ongoing development projects, including the completion of the International Conference Centre, restoration of the Hotel Presidential, and the construction of Smart Green School
s and Type 2 Primary Health Care Centers. With over 1000 projects simultaneously underway, the state requires increased revenue to complete them. The SSG praised the ESIRS Chairman for effectively collecting and enforcing tax laws, noting a significant rise in internally generated revenue (IGR).
Dr. Nathaniel E. Urama, the Commissioner for Finance, explained that the recruitment aims to enhance revenue collection and address existing challenges. He emphasized that the ESIRS is now well-positioned to revolutionize revenue generation in Enugu State, ensuring efficient use of funds for public benefit. He noted that residents are more willing to pay taxes as they witness tangible improvements and the governor’s commitment to alleviating poverty.
In response, ESIRS Chairman Ekene Nnamani expressed confidence that the new recruits would meet and exceed public expectations. He assured that the fresh energy from the young staff would enable the state to double its revenue collection within a few months, proving the
recruitment’s benefits to the state.