The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has expressed optimism for stronger economic growth, as it aligns its strategies with the gains of the new national tax reform laws.
This was highlighted during the 2025 Mid-Year Strategic Review Session held in Calabar, with the theme: “Leveraging on the Gains of the New National Reform Acts for Improved Revenue Growth and Economic Development of Cross River State.”
In line with the reform, individuals earning ₦800,000 or less annually are now exempt from income tax, while those with higher earnings—especially high-net-worth individuals—will pay up to 25% in taxes.
The law also introduces global taxation on the income of resident individuals with a significant economic presence (SEP), marking a shift toward inclusive taxation.
Speaking at the event, Executive Chairman of Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS), Prince Edwin Okon, PhD, said the service is undergoing a transformation driven by technology, strategic collaborations, and the forward-looking provisions of the recently passed tax reform acts. “We are using this session not only to reflect on our achievements and challenges but also to harness the new tax laws for sustainable revenue growth,” he stated.
The Chairman reported a significant increase in the number of registered taxpayers—from 175,000 to 439,001—attributed to enhanced automation, taxpayer engagement, and aggressive recovery of arrears from 2018 to 2024.
Dr. Okon said that Other innovations driving performance include the creation of a Revenue Assurance Unit, structural overhaul of tax offices into one-stop shops, and the launch of a High-Net-Worth Department to target previously untapped revenue streams.
Key government stakeholders present at the session echoed the theme’s relevance to Cross River’s economic aspirations.
Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mike Odere, noted that the new reform law offers legal and institutional backing for enforcing compliance.
The Economic Adviser to the Governor, Professor Peter Oti, emphasized that the new tax reforms provide a framework for equity and accountability.
The State Head of Service, Mr. Innocent Eteng, commended the CRIRS for structural improvements and the introduction of life and health insurance for staff.
Also speaking, Dr. Esien Ukorebi, a renowned fiscal policy expert, urged continued collaboration with MDAs.
As the state continues its economic restructuring, stakeholders at the event agreed that sustained political will, citizen education, and transparent processes will be key to unlocking the full benefits of the national tax reforms.
