The Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) has reiterated its commitment to recognizing tax-compliant individuals and businesses, emphasizing their vital role in the state’s development.
Speaking at the Taxpayers’ Month celebration in Bukuru, Jos South, PSIRS Chairman Jim Pam Wayas commended taxpayers for their contributions to sustaining government initiatives. He pledged to enhance engagement with them, noting that revenue generation in the state had increased from ₦25 billion to ₦31.14 billion in 2024.
“Every naira paid in tax is an investment in Plateau’s future. It is what allows the government to construct roads, provide water, improve healthcare, and enhance education. The more people comply, the more the government can do.
“As a revenue service, what we do is collect revenue to help the government fund critical projects and infrastructure.
“The government of the day is built on true leadership, sincerity, and a God-fearing approach. Despite lean resources, it has continued to drive developmental change,” he emphasized.
Citing ongoing projects, he highlighted the extensive fencing of the Jos Wildlife Park across multiple locations, including Federal Lowcost, State Lowcost, Tudun Wada, Mado, and Kabong.
“I recently joined the government on an inspection tour, and I was amazed at the scale of work being done. Even the rocky terrains around Kabong are being covered,” he added.
Wayas also highlighted improvements in internal roads and water supply, noting ongoing secondary road construction and major investments to address seasonal water scarcity.
He particularly recognized the Nigerian Electricity Supply Corporation (NESCO) for its long-standing role in powering Plateau State, especially in rural areas where tin mining activities occur. He praised the company’s tax compliance and urged continued partnership, acknowledging its efforts in maintaining aging infrastructure while ensuring electricity supply.
NESCO’s Human Resource and Administration Manager, Abraham Adama, welcomed the recognition, describing it as motivation for the company to maintain its service delivery. Despite challenges, he remained optimistic about strengthened partnerships with the government and other stakeholders, believing that enhanced collaboration could drive greater progress.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Jos South Plateau State Traders and Marketers Association, Saidu Ahmad Gambo, praised the government’s infrastructure efforts and urged traders to remain tax-compliant.
“If we continue fulfilling our tax obligations, the government will be better positioned to improve infrastructure and support businesses,” he said.
Some traders, including Augustine Okoh and Nanret Aliyu, acknowledged the government’s efforts but appealed for more support. Okoh called for the reconstruction of shops destroyed since May last year, while Aliyu stressed the need for better roads, electricity, and water supply to enhance the business environment.
The event featured musical performances, on-site Tax Identification Number (TIN) registration, and sensitization on the importance of tax compliance. Compliant taxpayers were also recognized and presented with hampers in appreciation of their contributions.