Bayelsa records 300% growth in IGR – BIRS Chair
By Tapre Timine, Bayelsa
The Executive Chairman of the Bayelsa State Board of Internal Revenue, Dr. Daniel Eniekezimene, has disclosed that under his leadership, the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) has witnessed a 300 percent growth.
Addressing journalists during a media briefing on Wednesday at the Board’s Conference Hall in Yenagoa, Dr. Eniekezimene revealed that the state’s IGR, which previously stood at N1.2 billion before he assumed office, has now surged to N4.2 billion. He attributed this increase to innovative measures introduced by the current board.
He noted that beyond boosting revenue, the board’s initiatives, particularly the introduction of the Electronic Ticketing System have brought greater order to the revenue collection process, curbing touting, corruption, and extortion.
Clarifying misconceptions surrounding the new ticketing system, Dr. Eniekezimene pointed out that it does not displace existing ticketers. Instead, it aims to create more employment opportunities with better remuneration, as the state government has approved a fair percentage distribution for all participants involved in revenue collection.
He therefore urged those spreading misinformation to demonstrate their commitment to Bayelsa’s progress by supporting government policies.
Dr. Eniekezimene further revealed the success of the Electronic Ticketing System in states like Enugu, where it generates up to N700 million monthly from the informal sector, a milestone that earned Enugu national recognition for excellence in revenue generation and innovation.
Speaking on the selection of technology providers, he explained that they were chosen after a thorough process conducted by an inter-ministerial team led by the Due Process and E-Governance unit, saying that the selected providers have a proven track record, having successfully implemented similar systems in five other states.
He appealed to stakeholders and taxpayers to support the initiative, assuring them that it is designed to benefit both the state and its citizens.
Dr. Eniekezimene also appreciated Governor Douye Diri for entrusting him with the role, adding that the board’s ultimate goal is to grow Bayelsa’s internally generated revenue to a level where the state can fund its development independently, without relying heavily on federal allocations.
He encouraged collective effort toward achieving this target.
