22 July 2007
Lagos — TAX authorities in Lagos State have started a new push to nudge residents and business owners in the state towards greater tax compliance.
In an exercise designed to stop tax evasion and boost fiscal revenues, the Lagos State Board of Internal Revenue (LSBIR) has started sending teams of officials to visit business premises to check for tax compliance.
LSBIR task force officials commenced the visits to business premises last Monday. A statement from Mr. Tunde Fowler, the Executive Chairman of the LSBIR, reminded Lagos State residents that it is a legal obligation to pay tax, urging those who have not yet paid their taxes as prescribed in the personal Income Tax Act to visit the nearest tax office for assessment and subsequent payment to designated banks.
Mr. Fowler assured that the visitations to business premises are designed and intended to be friendly and interactive.
"In reality this initiative is all about taking the LSBIR to the public. During these visits, our officials would be offering their usually courteous expertise to assist the public with tax assessments. And we would expect our officials to be received and treated with respect.
"The Board of Internal Revenue appreciates the support and cooperation of Lagosians in improving the state's tax revenue. What we are doing now is to make it easier for more people to comply by providing forms and free tax assessment services at our numerous tax stations," Fowler said.
The statement advised all taxable individuals and organizations resident in Lagos State to visit and use the free services available at any of ht 26 Lagos State Tax Stations to fulfill their tax obligations.
Officials at the tax station have been trained to provide the highest level of courteous service. After assessment by LSBIR officials, taxable persons are expected to make payments at designated banks.
LSBIR has also provided three phone numbers members of the public can call to make complaints or seek confirmation on tax issues. The care lines are 08082572444, 08059889830 and 0704954595.
"The task force visitations are expected to be continuous until the high rate of tax evasion is stemmed. Lagos easily leads the table for internally generated revenue, but it is believed that it can still improve its revenue profile by ensuring greater tax compliance. This the revenue board seeks to achieve by massive public education and encouraging voluntary compliance," Fowler further stated.
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