Anambra Internal Revenue Service Embarks on Zero-Cash Tolerance, Launches Technology for IGR Efficiency
The Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AiRS) has launched a new technology known as Transpay to facilitate effective revenue collection across the 23 Local Government Areas.
This was disclosed by the Chairman and Managing Director of AiRS, Dr. Greg Ezeilo, during a press briefing at the Boardroom, Revenue House, Awka, on Thursday, 6th February 2025.
Addressing journalists, Dr. Ezeilo expressed appreciation to Ndi Anambra taxpayers, particularly those who have voluntarily complied with their revenue obligations.
He highlighted various innovative reforms undertaken by the agency to enhance revenue collection in the state, including improvements to Transpay Technology, a payment solution specifically designed to streamline revenue payments for transport operators in Anambra.
Describing Transpay Technology as an online, real-time payment solution, he explained: “It is Pay as You Work. Once an operator is on boarded, the system ensures a seamless revenue payment process, billing them according to their work.”
He further revealed that approximately 60,000 transport operators have successfully been integrated into the Transpay system, adding: “We will replicate this success across other informal revenue sectors.”
Dr. Ezeilo expressed strong disapproval of non-state actors whose illegal activities hinder revenue growth in Anambra. According to him, their primary aim is to siphon state revenue for personal gain.
“Henceforth, no revenue agent, whether recognized or unrecognized—is permitted to collect cash as revenue payment. Anyone caught doing so will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly. Every revenue payment in Anambra State must be made through Transpay Technology, which has already proven effective.”
Dr. Ezeilo further disclosed that market hubs have been established across various markets in the state. These hubs are equipped with Wi-Fi, smart computers, and other essential tools for efficient revenue collection.
“The idea is for trained tax officers to be stationed at these hubs to professionally educate and assist market taxpayers in making their consolidated revenue payments in line with Presumptive Tax Laws,” he stated.
“AiRS is setting up a Tax Education Center to help market taxpayers streamline their business processes. The center will offer training on inventory management, bookkeeping, financial advisory, and stock accounting, among other areas.”
Dr. Ezeilo announced the introduction of AiRS Shuttle Buses, branded “AiRS Business on The Street”, which will be deployed to enumerate street businesses and integrate them into the state’s tax database.
Additionally, he emphasized the implementation of e-ticketing in collaboration with Local Government Mayors, ensuring that all revenue collection across Anambra’s local governments is digitized.
“The introduction of e-ticketing aligns with the Anambra State Revenue Consolidation and Harmonization Law and reinforces our commitment to leveraging technology for efficient revenue collection,” he stated.
Dr. Ezeilo reaffirmed that all these developments are geared toward significantly increasing Anambra State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and ensuring a transparent, accountable, and efficient tax system.
