The Bayelsa State has recorded a remarkable increase in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), reaching N4.2 billion in a single month, a 320% rise from previous figures.
The Bayelsa State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) attributed this surge to the implementation of an electronic ticketing (e-ticketing) system, which has significantly reduced cash leakages, curbed corruption, and enhanced transparency in tax collection.
BIRS Chairman, Daniel Eniekezimene explained that the state government had transitioned to a fully automated tax collection system, ensuring that payments from transport operators, traders, and businesses are deposited directly into government accounts.
Unlike the previous manual system, the e-ticketing platform generates instant receipts, making transactions traceable and reducing the risk of extortion.
“This is a turning point for Bayelsa. We have blocked revenue leakages and ensured that every kobo collected goes straight into government accounts,” Eniekezimene stated.
A commercial tricycle operator, Isaac Tamuno described the change as a relief, noting that, in the past, there was no transparency regarding where their money was going.
“With this e-ticket, we get receipts instantly, and no one can cheat us. It’s a big change for us,” he said.
The increased IGR is expected to finance key infrastructure projects, education, and healthcare.
Governor Douye Diri highlighted the significance of the revenue growth, stating, “This unprecedented revenue growth means we can now invest more in roads, schools, and healthcare.
“Our administration is committed to ensuring that every Bayelsan benefits from these reforms.”
Bayelsa’s success with the e-ticketing system is already being regarded as a model for other states struggling with low IGR.
Eniekezimene underscored the broader implications of this reform, emphasizing that technological solutions like e-ticketing could improve revenue collection and accountability across the country.
