In a strategic move to strengthen its internal revenue framework, the Cross River State Government has inaugurated the Cross River State Revenue Laws Review Committee. The committee, made up of representatives from various ministries, departments, and agencies, is tasked with reviewing and harmonizing existing state tax laws to align with ongoing national reforms.
The official inauguration took place on May 2, 2025, marking a significant step toward improving the legal and administrative structures of the state’s Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
In his opening remarks, Prince Edwin Okon PhD, Chairman of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service, welcomed attendees most especially the newly appointed Cross River State Revenue Laws Review Committee as he emphasized the importance of the initiative. He noted that the effort to reform tax laws at the state level is timely and aligned with the broader national tax reform bill currently under Senate review, as proposed by the President of Nigeria.
Dr. Edwin highlighted that several tax laws currently in effect in Cross River State are too large. These laws, he said, often appear bulky and difficult to implement. He cited Resolution 70, the existing guiding document for the state IRS, as being overly complex and in need of simplification.
“The objective,” he stated, “is to consolidate and streamline these various laws into a single, simplified document that will be easier to apply, more business-friendly, and ready for swift approval by the state government ahead of the passage of the national reform bill.”
The goal, he added, is not only administrative efficiency but also public convenience reducing the burden of tax compliance on individuals and businesses across the state.
The inauguration ceremony featured the official announcement of the committee members by Barr. Emmanuel Esirah, Secretary of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Board. He called out the names of the newly appointed committee members, after which they were officially inaugurated by Prince Edwin Okon PhD, Chairman CRSIRS.
Mrs. Nta Ekpiken Nkpang, who was appointed Chairperson of the Committee, expressed her gratitude for the confidence reposed in her and the team. She assured the Chairman and the public of the committee’s readiness to begin work immediately.
“We understand the urgency and significance of this assignment,” she said. “With the four-week deadline given by the Chairman, we are committed to delivering a comprehensive and actionable document within the stipulated time.”
The other inaugurated members are:
2. Dr. Ndoma 0. Ndoma
Member
3. Barr. Simeon Abi (Ministry Of Justice)
Member
4. Clerk Of The House
Member
5. Mr. Victor Okplewu
Member
6. Rep. NBA – (Mary Edet Etim)
Member
7. Rep. Ministry of Transport
Member
8. Rep. Ministry of Local Government
Member
9. Rep. Ministry of Agriculture
Member
10. Rep. Ministry of Lands
Member
11. Rep. Quarries – (Faith Plant)
Member
12. Rep. Calabar Chambers of Commerce
Member
13. Rep. CITN, Calabar Branch
Member
14. Rep. ICAN, Calabar Branch
Member
15. CRSHA – Legal Drafting Department
Member
16. Dr. Patience Egwu
Secretary
TERMS OF REFERENCE
- To review the new Presidential Fiscal Policy & Tax Reform Bill as it affects the State/Sub-national.
- Make recommendations to harmonize State Revenue Laws in line with the proposed Bill.
- Make recommendations on implementations of the Bill when passed into law.
- Review the proposed Bill as it affects MDAs.
- Organize Stakeholders’ meetings for all relevant MDAs in the State to create awareness of the proposed Bill. /
- Review of extant Revenue Laws and align same with the proposed National Tax Bill.
Others attendees are stakeholders from key government institutions, Cross River State House of Assembly,tax professionals, legal experts, and civil society representatives.
