The announcement was made in a statement issued on Friday by the Corporate Communications Department of the Joint Revenue Board (JRB).
The JRB congratulated Governor Douye Diri, as well as the government and people of Bayelsa State, on the passage and signing of the law, noting that it represents a significant milestone in the state’s tax reform efforts.
According to the board, the legislation is the first of its kind to be signed by any state in the South-South geopolitical zone. It is aimed at eliminating multiple taxation by harmonising nearly 60 existing taxes, levies and charges into just nine approved heads for collection.
The law also outlaws the use of roadblocks for the collection of taxes, levies and charges, de-emphasises cash-based collections and promotes the use of technology to enhance transparency in tax administration and curb revenue leakages.
The harmonised tax framework is expected to improve taxpayer compliance, boost investor confidence and support the economic development of Bayelsa State.
The JRB commended the collaborative efforts of the Bayelsa State Government, the State House of Assembly and the Bayelsa State Internal Revenue Service in advancing the reform, adding that it aligns with the national tax reform agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and highlights the state’s commitment to transparency and good governance.
