New tax reforms will relieve many Nigerians of tax burden — AKIRS boss

The Executive Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, has assured Nigerians that the new tax reforms recently introduced by the Federal Government will ease the tax burden on citizens, particularly those within the low-income bracket.

Sir Okon gave the assurance while speaking in Uyo during a courtesy visit by the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akwa Ibom State Command, Mr. Francis Ajatta, as part of ongoing engagements towards the implementation of the new reforms scheduled to commence in January 2026.

The AKIRS helmsman, who is also a member of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, explained that the reforms are designed to simplify the tax system and ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency in revenue administration.

“Nigerians do not have to be unduly apprehensive about the new Tax Reform Acts. The reforms have actually come to relieve Nigerians. Many, especially those in the low-income category, will be exempted from tax obligations,” Sir Okon stated.

“People often fear that government wants to impose more taxes to raise revenue, but the opposite is the case. When the implementation begins, Nigerians—particularly PAYE earners—will realize that the reforms are indeed in their best interest,” he added.

As part of preparations for the January 1, 2026 rollout, the Executive Chairman announced that the Service has constituted Implementation Committees to ensure a seamless transition. He also disclosed that the Board has commenced intensive training of staff, public sensitization campaigns across traditional and digital media, as well as digitalization of tax processes and infrastructure upgrades to enhance service delivery.

Sir Okon expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno, PhD, for directing him to continue in office and for the Governor’s consistent support towards efficient tax administration in the state.

Earlier, FRSC Sector Commander, Mr. Francis Ajatta, who assumed duty in Akwa Ibom in June 2025, said his visit was to formally introduce himself and strengthen the existing collaboration between the FRSC and AKIRS.

Ajatta commended the AKIRS Chairman for his proactive measures ahead of the reforms and highlighted key areas for collaboration, including addressing over 4,000 unclaimed driver’s licences, 1,800 expired licences, and the continued use of outdated number plates in the state.

In response, Sir Okon assured that AKIRS will continue to partner with the FRSC to improve compliance and public enlightenment. He, however, urged the Corps to reduce the waiting time for the collection of driver’s licences to encourage more motorists to retrieve theirs promptly.

The meeting further strengthened the working relationship between AKIRS and the FRSC, both of which play crucial roles in ensuring effective service delivery and compliance within the state.