The Bauchi State Government has expressed its commitment to collaborating with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to improve tax compliance among its citizens.Â
This pledge was made by the Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Auwal Jatau, during an interactive session held with officials from the Bauchi office of the FIRS, on Wednesday.
The meeting took place at the Deputy Governor’s Office and was part of the activities marking the 2024 FIRS Customer Service Week.
In his address, the Deputy Governor highlighted the importance of the advocacy visit by the FIRS officials, describing it as both timely and essential.
He emphasized the need for cooperation between the state government and the FIRS to enhance tax compliance in Bauchi State, which he noted is crucial for the socio-economic development of the region.
“The advocacy visit is not only timely but also crucial as we work together to enhance tax compliance in our state,” Jatau stated.
The Deputy Governor commended the FIRS for its efforts in organizing the Customer Service Week, noting that such initiatives serve as a reminder of the critical role that effective communication and customer service play in tax administration.
He pointed out that taxation is a fundamental pillar of governance, as it provides the government with the necessary revenue to fund essential services and infrastructure projects, including education, healthcare, and other development initiatives that benefit the entire population.
“Taxation is the backbone of the government’s ability to provide essential services, infrastructure, and support for citizens,” Jatau noted. “It is through the revenue generated from taxes that the government can fund education, healthcare, and development projects that benefit all citizens.”
He further acknowledged the efforts made by the FIRS in improving customer service and simplifying tax processes.
These steps, according to Jatau, not only ease the burden on taxpayers but also foster trust and accountability between the government and the citizens.
He reiterated the Bauchi State Government’s readiness to support the FIRS in its initiatives to increase tax compliance, pledging to provide the necessary support to ensure that the goals of the FIRS are achieved.
“We appreciate the efforts of the FIRS in improving customer service and simplifying tax processes,” the Deputy Governor added. “These initiatives not only ease the burden on taxpayers but also promote a sense of trust and accountability between the government and the governed. I assure you that Bauchi State Government is prepared to support these initiatives and provide any necessary support to enhance tax compliance.”
Jatau also reassured the FIRS delegation that Governor Bala Mohammed is fully committed to promoting a culture of tax compliance in Bauchi State.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that citizens understand the benefits of their tax contributions and how these funds contribute to the overall growth of the state’s economy.
“As we celebrate Customer Service Week, let us remember that our mutual goal is to create a fair and efficient tax system that serves the interests of our citizens,” he said. “I encourage us to engage with our communities, listen to their concerns, and educate them on their rights and responsibilities regarding tax payments.”
In response, Dr. Sani Dahiru, the FIRS officer overseeing Bauchi, Borno, and Yobe states, expressed his gratitude to the Bauchi State Government for its continued support.
He assured the Deputy Governor that the FIRS is willing to collaborate with the state government in all areas of revenue generation and tax collection, in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.
Dr. Dahiru also acknowledged the positive relationship between the FIRS and the state government, noting that this partnership is essential for the effective delivery of the FIRS’s mandate in Bauchi State.
He pledged the FIRS’s commitment to working closely with the state government to ensure a smooth and efficient tax administration system in the state.
The interactive session concluded with a renewed commitment from both parties to continue their efforts in improving tax compliance and enhancing the socio-economic development of Bauchi State through effective tax administration.
