The Executive Chairman of Cross River Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS), Prince Edwin Okon, has restated that taxes and levies are crucial sources of revenue used by the government to fund vital projects.
Speaking with journalists during a road walk organized by the agency to drive extensive tax compliance awareness campaign across streets and markets at 8-Miles, Calabar, Prince Okon explained that the exercise was aimed at reminding residents about their tax obligations and educating them on the importance of tax payment for community and State developments.
“It’s not just a walk, but an awareness campaign,” Okon said, highlighting that the government, through robust tax payment, can provide a better life for its citizens with social benefits, healthcare, education, employment, and better infrastructure among others – resulting in happier citizens.
He mentioned the State government’s developmental strides, pointing to recent approvals by the State Executive Council for projects in various communities, including road constructions and hospital renovations in areas previously underserved, stressing that such initiatives depend on the financial contributions of the citizens through taxes.
Announcing the operation of a local tax office at 147 Ikpai Omin, beside Poly Clinic, 8-Miles, the Cross River Internal Revenue Service Chairman urged taxpayers to use the facility for inquiries and payments instead of travelling to the headquarters.
Prince Okon, however, advised residents not to “Give cash to anybody,” but should ensure that payments were directly made into government accounts, as this will ensure transparency and accountability in revenue collection.
He also encouraged residents to obtain their Tax Identification Number (TIN), which he said is created free of charge, pointing out that TINs would soon serve as essential identification for accessing hospitals and other vital services.
While distributing flyers to residents along the routes, and traders at the mini market by Walk Over as well as shop owners at 8-miles main market, the CRIRS boss appealed for increased tax compliance so as to sustain ongoing development in the State.
The campaign marks a proactive move by the State Internal Revenue Service to bridge information gap and enhance tax collection crucial for the sustained growth of the State.
MBAH
