The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) announced on Saturday that the state's monthly Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) increased from approximately N2.1 billion in January to over N2.7 billion in May and June 2025. The agency also revealed that it has achieved 51 percent of its 2026 annual revenue target within the first six months of the year, all without introducing new taxes or raising existing tax rates.
Improved compliance and digital tax administration drive growth
EKIRS Executive Chairman Olaniran Olatona disclosed these figures while appearing on “Ekiti Today,” a live radio programme in Ado Ekiti, the state capital. He attributed the revenue growth to improved voluntary tax compliance, digital tax administration, public enlightenment campaigns, tax reforms, an empowered workforce, and the enabling environment fostered by Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration.
“The increase was achieved without enforcement measures such as roadblocks or the closure of defaulting business premises,” Olatona said. He emphasized that EKIRS has focused on expanding the tax net, blocking revenue leakages, and deploying technology and data intelligence to improve tax administration.
Residents encouraged by developmental projects
Mr. Olatona commended residents for their growing willingness to meet tax obligations, attributing improved compliance to visible developmental projects executed by the state government. “Many taxpayers were encouraged to comply once they understood the purpose of taxation and were convinced that their contributions were being prudently utilised for the state’s development,” he explained.
The EKIRS boss advised residents processing Certificates of Occupancy and Tax Clearance Certificates to beware of fraudsters, warning that offenders involved in tax-related scams would be arrested and prosecuted. He clarified that businesses are assessed based on their financial records, and taxpayers dissatisfied with an assessment have the legal right to file an objection within 30 days by writing to the agency’s chairman for a review.
Penalties for defaulters and collaboration with civil service
On compliance, Olatona said EKIRS has intensified awareness campaigns and collaborated with the Office of the Head of Service and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to ensure civil servants and political office holders comply with statutory tax filing requirements. He noted that defaulters are liable to a penalty of N100,000 for the first month of default and N50,000 for each subsequent month, in addition to outstanding tax liabilities.
Number plate shortage and tax reform clarifications
Addressing the temporary shortage of vehicle number plates, Olatona said EKIRS has partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to resolve the issue. He disclosed that the state has received 1,000 additional number plates following engagements with FRSC authorities in Lagos, and advised security agencies to show understanding towards commercial motorcycle operators affected by the shortage while distribution continues.
The chairman also dismissed claims that recent tax reforms have imposed additional burdens on residents, explaining that some taxes, including consumption tax, are no longer collected by the state under the current legal framework. He urged residents to familiarize themselves with existing tax laws to better understand the collection responsibilities of federal, state, and local governments.
No interference from Oyebanji administration
Olatona reaffirmed that the Oyebanji administration does not interfere in EKIRS operations, describing reports alleging plans to introduce new taxes as false. He added that the agency will continue to prioritize technology-driven revenue administration, data intelligence, and voluntary tax compliance to improve revenue generation while sustaining economic growth in the state.
