Cross River State has reached a historic milestone as its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) surged to N46 billion.
Speaking at the inauguration of the newly renovated Calabar 1 tax office along IBB Way in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu credited the achievement to strategic reforms and the effective use of technology.
“We collect taxes in a way that not only ensures revenue growth but also benefits taxpayers by providing them with tangible dividends from the tax pool,” the governor said.
Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Mike Odere—who represented the governor at the event—highlighted that the state’s IGR has increased by 209% over the past 18 months.
This impressive growth was not the result of raising tax rates but stemmed from enhanced collection efficiencies and the automation of tax processes, which has minimised revenue leakages.
Cross River IRS Chairman, Edwin Okon, noted that the state’s IGR climbed from N22 billion in December 2022 to N46 billion by December 2024. He encouraged his team to surpass their targets for 2025, praising the transparent management of tax funds under the current administration.
Additionally, Member of the Cross River House of Assembly for Boki II, Hon. Hilary Bisong, commended the governor and the IRS for the significant progress.
Bisong recalled the transformation of the Calabar 1 tax office—from a once dilapidated building, further damaged by a strong wind that tore off part of its roof, to a modern, one-stop facility that now streamlines all tax collection services.
He assured the House’s continued support as it partners with the IRS to further harmonise and enhance the state’s tax system.
