In the dynamic landscape of tax administration, the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has been a trailblazer in Nigeria, setting new standards for efficiency and innovation. At the heart of LIRS’ success are the dedicated tax professionals who continuously contribute to the organisation’s progress.
In this article, we will explore the original contributions made by Sukrah Funmilayo Mebude, a fellow of the CITN (Chartered Institute of Taxation Nigeria), and a tax expert at LIRS and highlighting the impact of these innovations on tax collection, compliance, and overall revenue generation.
The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) was established in 2007 with the mandate to assess, collect, and account for all taxes due to the Lagos State Government. Since its inception, LIRS has made significant strides in improving revenue generation and compliance. One of the key factors in the success of the agency has been its focus on taxpayer education and enlightenment.
The agency has launched a number of initiatives to help taxpayers understand their tax obligations and made it easier for them to comply. These initiatives include, public awareness campaigns through the media and social media, taxpayer education seminars and workshops, a dedicated taxpayer service call centre, a user-friendly website with electronic tax filing and payment options
LIRS has also invested in developing a robust tax administration system. The agency has implemented a number of technological solutions to streamline tax processes, improve efficiency, and reduce fraud. These solutions include: an integrated tax system that links all of LIRS’ operations, an electronic tax filing and payment system, a data analytics system to identify tax evasion and avoidance.
As a result of these efforts, LIRS has seen a significant increase in revenue generation and compliance over the years. In 2022, LIRS collected a total of ₦651 billion in taxes, an increase of 15% from the previous year. LIRS has also achieved a compliance rate of over 80%, which is the highest in the country.
LIRS’ success in revenue generation and compliance has been critical to the development of Lagos State. The agency’s tax revenues have funded the construction of roads, schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure projects that have improved the lives of millions of Lagosians.
Acknowledging the importance of embracing modern payment methods, LIRS has spearheaded the development of efficient digital payment solutions. This includes an array of online payment options, mobile apps, and e-filing systems. These innovations have not only simplified the payment process for taxpayers but have also expedited revenue collection for LIRS.
One monumental LIRS accomplishment in driving revenue generation and compliance was in 2019, when LIRS launched the e-Tax platform, which made it easier for taxpayers to file and pay their taxes online. This resulted in a significant increase in electronic tax filings and payments. LIRS continues to innovate and implement new strategies to improve revenue generation and compliance. The agency is committed to providing taxpayers with a user-friendly and efficient tax system, and to collecting the taxes that are needed to fund the development of Lagos State.
Having worked at the LIRS dedicatedly since 2010, Sukrah Funmilayo Mebude stated she feels very proud of to be part of the magnanimous impact the agency is making towards achieving the revenue goals of the State Government. The agency continues to equip staff daily with trainings to make them better positioned to carry out their duties diligently. Thanks to the love she has for her job, she has acquired the requisite certification needed to practice tax from the professional body governing tax administration in Nigeria, which she joined in 2013.
The contributions of Sukrah Funmilayo Mebude at the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service has had a transformative impact on the organisation’s operations. Her original initiatives have not only improved revenue collection but have also elevated the standard of tax administration in Lagos State.
Through digitalisation, data analytics, public engagement, and international collaboration, she has demonstrated that innovation and dedication can bring about positive change in the realm of taxation. As the tax landscape continues to evolve, her contributions serve as a shining example of how tax professionals can make a lasting difference in the fiscal health of their region.
She sees the LIRS evolving more in the years ahead by fully taking more advantage of the technology existing nowadays to become more effective and efficient in ensuring compliance remains at optimal level and the revenue generated is further increased.
