Edo Insists on Cashless Revenue Collection, Directs Taxpayers to Digital Channels

Edo Insists on Cashless Revenue Collection, Directs Taxpayers to Digital Channels

By Elvis Omoregie

The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to a cashless revenue collection system, directing all taxpayers across the state to utilize approved digital payment channels for the settlement of taxes, levies, and other government-related revenues.

The directive, issued through the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), forms part of the government's broader strategy to enhance transparency, improve accountability, and eliminate leakages in revenue collection.

According to the revenue agency, all payments due to the state government must be made through designated electronic platforms, including online payment portals, bank transfers, and other authorized digital channels. Taxpayers were strongly advised against making cash payments to individuals, agents, or unauthorized collectors.

The agency noted that the cashless policy is designed to strengthen public confidence in the tax administration system by ensuring that all transactions are properly documented, traceable, and securely processed.

EIRS further emphasized that taxpayers should always obtain official receipts and payment confirmations generated through approved channels. The service warned that any payment made outside the authorized platforms may not be recognized by the government and could expose individuals and businesses to fraudulent activities.

Speaking on the initiative, officials of the agency stated that the transition to digital revenue collection aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing public finance management and improving service delivery throughout the state.

The revenue service also encouraged residents and business owners to report any unauthorized demand for cash payments by individuals claiming to represent the government. Such reports, it said, would help authorities identify and sanction fraudulent operators.

Observers have described the move as a significant step toward promoting fiscal transparency and efficiency in Edo State. With governments across Nigeria increasingly embracing technology-driven solutions, the adoption of cashless revenue collection is expected to improve compliance, reduce administrative bottlenecks, and boost internally generated revenue.

The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging technology to build a more transparent and accountable revenue administration system, urging all taxpayers to comply fully with the new directive for the benefit of the state's development and economic growth.