In a refreshing take that’s music to many artists’ ears (and maybe a few accountants’ too), Dr Jim Pam Wayas, Executive Chairman of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), has declared that creativity isn’t just art—it’s economics.
Speaking at the historic maiden edition of the Plateau Creative Industry Engagement at Sarau Event Centre in Jos, Dr Wayas delivered a compelling message: the creative economy isn’t just about hits, hashtags, or Hollywood-style dreams—it’s a serious driver of jobs, investment, and sustainable development for Plateau State.
Far from being enemies, Dr Wayas argued that creativity and taxation are natural allies. “When creatives thrive, Plateau thrives,” he said. “You create jobs. You attract eyeballs—and investors. You help build a self-reliant state.”
But here’s the kicker: he also reminded the room that everyone who earns should contribute—including those making waves online with music, films, comedy skits, or digital art. Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio, he noted, is among the lowest in sub-Saharan Africa, and closing that gap starts with inclusivity.
Recognising that today’s creatives often earn through Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, or freelance platforms, PSIRS has launched a new department dedicated to the digital economy. “Data is the new oil,” Dr Wayas declared, “and many of you are already drilling—but informally.”
His pitch? Formalise your hustle. Register your business. Understand your tax obligations—not as a penalty, but as a passport to legitimacy, access to grants, and even international opportunities.
Addressing common fears of overtaxation, Dr Wayas was clear: “Taxes are paid on profit, not poverty.” He stressed that PSIRS isn’t out to burden struggling artists but to ensure fairness across the board. The revenue collected, he assured, will fuel better roads, power, security, and innovation hubs—all of which creatives need to scale.
He also issued a rallying cry: “Unite. Collaborate. Tell Plateau’s story.” Whether through Nollywood films shot in Shere Hills, Afrobeat anthems from Jos studios, or tech-driven art installations, creatives have the power to reshape how the world sees the state—and attract tourism and investment in the process.
In closing, Dr Wayas extended a hand, not a bill: the government, he said, is committed to creating a supportive ecosystem where creativity isn’t just celebrated—it’s monetised, protected, and scaled.
So to all the singers, filmmakers, designers, coders, and content creators of Plateau: your talent is your tax-deductible superpower. And now, the state is finally ready to invest in it—right alongside you.
