From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has refuted claims of poor revenue performance and a shortage of vehicle number plates.
During a press briefing at the IRS office in Katsina, Chairman Mohammed Isyaku addressed these allegations.
He stated that the service currently possesses 3,813 number plates across various categories, including private, commercial, government, and dealer plates.
Isyaku clarified that an order for additional number plates has been placed with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in August 2024, with a payment of N45 million already made.
He emphasized that the existing stock of number plates is sufficient to meet current demand and that the anticipated delivery of the new order will further alleviate any concerns.
Regarding revenue performance, Chairman Isyaku highlighted a significant increase in revenue generation.
Between December 2022 and December 2023, the IRS generated N9.5 billion. This figure surged to N20.8 billion between December 2023 and December 2024, demonstrating a substantial improvement in revenue collection.
The Chairman also addressed the recent codification of the state’s Tax Laws, which centralized revenue collection.
He explained that this decision aligns with best practices in revenue generation and was enacted through a legislative process at the Katsina State House of Assembly with the full consent of local governments.
To enhance transparency and efficiency, the state government has engaged a consultant and super agents who utilize digital tools for tax collection.