The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing revenue generation through the strategic use of technology and effective advocacy. Mr. Ayodele Subair, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, emphasized these efforts during an interview on “The Tax Talk,” a new 30-minute public enlightenment television program on taxation, broadcast on Channels Television.
Subair highlighted the pivotal role that technology has played in optimizing LIRS operations and boosting revenue generation for the state. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the use of technology in revenue generation during his tenure as the state governor. This legacy was continued by subsequent governors, including Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and the current governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which has contributed to the agency’s effectiveness.
Subair explained, “We looked at the situation where we have high net worth individuals, and then we set up shop to make sure that we plan to cater for the different needs of the different segments of taxpayers. So having done that, we looked at our processes, did a lot of process reengineering, and looked at removing all the things that would make our jobs longer or more difficult.”
He emphasized the significance of technology integration, stating, “If we did not introduce technology, no doubt, we’re going to have very, very limited success. We have our e-tax and we also have our IBILE hub software to take care of the informal sector.”
Subair also shared the agency’s ongoing initiatives to leverage technology further, including setting up research units to explore its application in tax operations, benefiting both the agency and taxpayers. He highlighted the importance of simplifying the tax experience for the public.
The LIRS chairman underscored the role of advocacy in tax administration, emphasizing the agency’s proactive engagement with taxpayers and stakeholders. The strategic use of technology and effective advocacy are integral to LIRS’s mission to enhance revenue generation for the Lagos State government.
