The Plateau State Government has announced a historic boost in its internally generated revenue (IGR), surpassing ₦40 billion for the first time in 2025, as fiscal reforms aimed at easing taxpayer burdens begin to yield results.
The Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) disclosed the milestone during a press briefing in Jos, where its Executive Chairman, Dr. Jim Wayas, reviewed the agency’s performance between 2022 and 2025 and outlined strategies for the coming year.
Dr. Wayas said PSIRS achieved 94 per cent of its budgeted revenue target in 2025, the highest performance level since inception, contributing significantly to the ₦40 billion benchmark. However, he noted mixed results among Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), with performance dropping from 100 per cent in 2023 to 70 per cent in 2025.
He explained that operational reforms, including full automation of processes and elimination of cash collections, have curbed leakages and improved efficiency. Looking ahead, the service has set an ambitious ₦65 billion revenue target for 2026, focusing on expanding the tax base rather than increasing rates for compliant taxpayers.
Persistent challenges remain in sectors such as mining, which fall under federal jurisdiction. To address this, PSIRS is tracking mining operators through banking transactions to integrate them into the state’s tax net.
On multiple taxation, Dr. Wayas said new laws have been introduced to consolidate levies, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding with local governments for single demand notices. He added that the newly enacted Plateau State Tax and Levies Act is designed to harmonise collections at both state and local levels.
Daily ticketing for tricycle operators, previously dominated by non-state actors, was highlighted as a priority area, with plans for a unified inter-state ticketing policy using stickers and a single consultant.
Dr. Wayas stressed that PSIRS adopts a non-punitive approach toward compliant taxpayers, encouraging voluntary compliance. For defaulters, enforcement begins with demand notices, while Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms are promoted as faster and more cost-effective alternatives to litigation.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, efficiency and sustainable economic growth, noting that resolving issues such as mining revenue, multiple taxation and jurisdictional overlaps may ultimately require constitutional amendments for a unified national tax system.
Despite these challenges, he said Plateau remains committed to taxpayer-friendly policies that support economic development and long-term fiscal stability.
By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
