Abia Government Sets N120 Billion IGR Target for 2025, Launches Statewide Enumeration And Tax Automation Drive
In a bold move to enhance its fiscal sustainability and improve service delivery, the Abia State Government has announced a N120 billion Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target for the 2025 fiscal year.
As part of this initiative, the government has commenced a comprehensive statewide data enumeration and tax automation exercise to capture accurate records of homes, businesses, and residents across the state.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who disclosed this during a press conference stated that the new initiative is critical to unlocking revenue potentials, ensuring equitable tax administration, and strengthening access to social services for Ndi Abia.
“Our ambition for 2025 is even greater than what we have achieved so far,” Prince Kanu said. “To meet the rising needs of Abians and deliver fully on the promises of this new era, the government is unlocking every viable avenue of Internally Generated Revenue. We are confident that with the support of our people, we will meet and even surpass our N120 billion target by year-end.”
He noted that the enumeration and automation exercise is being carried out in partnership with Access Bank and will be seamlessly integrated with the Abia State Social Identification Number (ABSSIN). This, he said, would enable the creation of a robust digital database for residents and businesses, thereby improving revenue forecasting and planning.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu, acknowledged the remarkable support the current administration has received from Abians. He reiterated that the visible progress in the state—particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and urban renewal—requires sustainable funding mechanisms to continue.
“The progress we’ve made so far has been tremendous, but sustainable development requires consistent funding,” Ukandu emphasized. “We are optimistic that with the cooperation of Ndi Abia, this administration will continue to meet its development targets.”
The Chairman of the Abia State Internal Revenue Service, Professor Udochukwu Ogbonna, highlighted the broader significance of the enumeration effort, stressing its relevance to both economic and security objectives.
“It’s not just about revenue. This initiative is also key to enhancing security. Accurate data helps us plan better and protect our communities more effectively,” Ogbonna said. “We urge everyone to show good faith by paying their taxes promptly. It is both a civic responsibility and a way to empower the government to serve the people better.”
He added that individuals and businesses that have not been fulfilling their tax obligations should see this as an opportunity to align with the law and support the government’s efforts.
With this bold initiative, the Abia State Government under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti continues to demonstrate its commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive economic development.
The press conference was attended by key government officials, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Mr. Emmanuel Okpechi, among others.
