Events
PSIRS Launches Bold Tax Reforms at Landmark Summit
In a major push for financial independence, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service has launched sweeping reforms to overhaul its property and land tax system following a historic two-day Tax Summit held from August 21–22, 2025.
Themed “Unlocking Domestic Resources: Strengthening Property and Land-Related Taxes,” the summit brought together government leaders, legal experts, technocrats, and community representatives to tackle the state’s low revenue collection.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Secretary to the State Government Arch. Samuel Jatau, stressed that land is a key asset for development. “We must stop relying on federal handouts and start building a fair, transparent tax system that funds better roads, schools, hospitals, and services,” he said.
The Revenue Crisis
Despite over 1 million buildings in the state (per NASA data), only 14,000 are currently taxed — just 1.4%. Nationally, property taxes contribute less than 5% of government revenue, far below global standards.
Dr. Jim Pam Wayas, Head of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), called the gap a “revenue emergency.”
“Revenue is the blood of government. Right now, Plateau is barely surviving. We can do much better,” he said.
A major hurdle? The clash between formal land laws and traditional ownership systems.
Hon. Philemon Audu Daffi, Attorney General, noted: “We have the laws — what’s missing is unity between statutory and customary systems.”
Tech to the Rescue
The Plateau Geographic Information Service (PLAGIS) unveiled digital mapping tools that can identify, value, and bill properties automatically. Soon, owners could get tax notices via SMS and pay online.
“Data is the new oil,” said Dr. Wayas. “Now we’re learning how to refine it.”
An Implementation Committee has been formed, led by the Attorney General. A 7-point plan was adopted:
1. Unify land tenure systems
2. Train local government staff
3. Use data for revenue forecasting
4. Link PSIRS with PLAGIS and other agencies
5. Educate the public on tax benefits
6. Fix property valuation methods
7. Update tax laws
“We’re making tax payment simple and fair,” said Lands Commissioner Hon. Peter Nyam Gei. “One notice, one payment — no harassment.”
MDAs Under the Microscope
Day two focused on agency revenue performance. While Plateau hit 102% of its 2023 budget and boosted IGR to 62% in 2024, early 2025 data shows trouble:
– Only 13.4% of MDAs met half their targets
– 63.4% performed below 25%
– 17.1% collected nothing
Top performers:
– Ministry of Information (1,243%)
– Ministry of Justice (729%)
– Jos Main Market Authority (429%)
Lagging sectors: Agriculture, Health, ICT, and Science & Technology.
The Way Forward
Recommendations include:
– Set realistic revenue targets
– Automate collections
– Diversify income (e.g., tourism, land taxes)
– Monitor performance quarterly
– Reward top-performing agencies
With federal funding shrinking, Plateau is betting on itself. By merging technology, legal reform, and accountability, the state aims to build a system where citizens pay willingly — because they see results.
“This isn’t just talk,” said one official. “The Plateau Project is about action.”
The message is clear: Fair taxes. Better services. Stronger state.
Events
COAS Honours Troops with Eid El Kabir Luncheon in Plateau, Commends Sacrifices in Ongoing Operations
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu NAM, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, hosted a special Eid el Kabir luncheon for frontline troops in Plateau State in recognition of their sacrifices and sustained efforts in maintaining peace and security across the Joint Operations Area.
The event, organised by Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army in collaboration with the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), held at the Operation ENDURING PEACE headquarters in Jos and brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and invited guests in a festive atmosphere.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander Armour Corps, Major General U.B. Abubakar, delivered the COAS’s goodwill message, describing Eid el Kabir as a reminder of faith, sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to duty.
He commended troops for their resilience in the face of security challenges across the country, noting their contributions to ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other forms of criminality.
According to him, the Nigerian Army remains proud of the commitment and professionalism of its personnel, adding that their sacrifices continue to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, describing their memory as a source of inspiration for serving troops. He extended condolences to their families and assured them of continued support and welfare attention from the Army.
The COAS, through his representative, reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ welfare, noting that ongoing infrastructure projects, housing schemes, healthcare support, and educational initiatives for personnel and their families remain a priority under his command philosophy.
He urged troops to remain disciplined, professional, and united, while using the festive period to reflect on the values of sacrifice, loyalty, and service to the nation. He also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in sustaining operational success.
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, said Eid el Kabir symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, and devotion—values he noted are deeply reflected in military service.
He commended troops operating under challenging conditions, describing their resilience and professionalism as vital to ongoing peace efforts in the region.
Oyinlola also observed a moment of remembrance for fallen personnel, stating that their sacrifices must continue to inspire commitment to mission success. He urged troops to remain vigilant and dedicated to sustaining gains in security operations.
The event was attended by senior security officials, including representatives of the Special Adviser on Security to the Plateau State Government and Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, heads of security agencies, senior military officers, and other stakeholders.
High-ranking officers also took part in serving meals to troops, a gesture that highlighted camaraderie and appreciation, while cultural performances and entertainment added colour to the celebration.
The luncheon ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and continued dedication to national service as troops marked the Eid celebration with their families and colleagues.
Entertainment
Jos Gunners Set for Mega Celebration as Arsenal Victory Parade, UCL Watch Party Hit the City
Jos is set to come alive in Arsenal colours as fans across Plateau State prepare for the much-anticipated Jos Arsenal Victory Parade, UEFA Champions League Watch Party, and Arsenal Awards Night in what promises to be one of the biggest fan gatherings in the city.
The event, described as the ultimate Gooners’ link-up, will bring together Arsenal supporters from across the state for an evening packed with celebration, entertainment, and football passion — with free entry for everyone.
Activities kick off on Saturday, May 30, with the Victory Parade scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM sharp from Terminus, by Zenith Bank, as fans are expected to flood the streets in Arsenal jerseys to celebrate in style.
The celebration will then move to Tamarald Event Centre (Outdoor), off Old Airport Junction, from 4:00 PM, where guests will enjoy an exciting lineup of activities.
Organisers have promised premium entertainment featuring free party jollof for the first 50 attendees, sizzling barbecue, music performances, comedy, dance showcases, special Arsenal awards presentations, and the official launch of a brand-new Arsenal-themed song.
Supporters are simply encouraged to show up in their Arsenal jerseys and be part of the unforgettable experience.
The event is supported by Areo Global Services, Malangwa Media Empire, Nugroove Multimedia, Grace Dimensions Ministries, Dabels Cakes and Catering, Jos Metro Foods, Da Zone Concepts, Joe B Entertainment, Royal K.O.C, and the Gunners Rhythm Gang.
For enquiries, support, and table reservations, interested participants can contact:
07031001105
08126007839
For Jos Gooners, this is more than an event — it is a celebration of football, community, and Arsenal pride.
-
News4 days agoFounders seize on Indian court ruling to revive criticism of Google’s ad business
-
News3 days ago
I put Google’s 24/7 AI assistant Gemini Spark to work, and it’s actually pretty useful
-
News2 days ago
Wikki Spikers working hard to secure CGC Premier League qualification: Coach
-
News3 days ago
SENATOR I. D. GYANG SAYS PLATEAU NORTH AWAITS JUSTICE FROM THE NATIONAL WORKING COMMITTEE OF THE APC.
