By Douglas Princemola
Hosting the 2026 retreat of the National Council of Finance and Economic Development (NACOFED) in Owerri has further highlighted Imo State’s growing economic profile, with the Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS) crediting Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration for creating an environment that is attracting major national economic programmes and driving revenue growth.
The IIRS Executive Chairman, Mr. Justice Okoye, described the successful hosting of the retreat as a boost to the state’s investment prospects and economic visibility.
The retreat attracted the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, senior federal finance officials and other key stakeholders. Okoye said the gathering provided an important platform for discussions on Nigeria’s economic future while strengthening cooperation between the federal and state governments.
He attributed the steady rise in Imo’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to the administration’s focus on strategic planning, digital transformation and improved security.
According to him, the improved security situation has enabled revenue officials to extend taxpayer sensitisation programmes to communities previously difficult to access, thereby widening the state’s tax base.
Okoye also highlighted the IIRS digital revenue system, which allows taxpayers to receive electronic assessments, make payments online and obtain receipts without visiting government offices. Vehicle-document renewal and other revenue-related services have also been integrated into the platform.
He noted that the digital system has strengthened monitoring and compliance by automatically tracking taxpayers, sending payment reminders and identifying defaulters for appropriate action.
“Revenue does not grow overnight,” Okoye said, stressing that sustainable revenue growth requires sound policies, strategic planning and effective execution.
While acknowledging the progress recorded, the IIRS chairman said the state had yet to reach its desired revenue target. He assured that the agency would continue to expand the tax base, improve its digital systems and intensify taxpayer awareness.
He also commended the IIRS Corporate Affairs Unit for its role in taking revenue information and sensitisation campaigns to grassroots communities.
Okoye expressed appreciation to Governor Uzodimma for his commitment to economic growth, improved security and the creation of an enabling environment for businesses and residents to thrive.
With stronger security, wider tax coverage and digital innovation driving its revenue system, Imo State is positioning itself for greater economic growth.
