Ukorebi Esien | December 24, 2025
CALABAR - The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on tax evasion, announcing a firm deadline for the filing of annual tax returns by individuals and corporate entities operating in the state.
Speaking in Calabar, the Executive Chairman of CRIRS stated that all taxable persons are required to file their annual returns on or before January 31, stressing that the directive is in line with existing tax laws and part of broader efforts to strengthen revenue generation for sustainable development in Cross River State.
According to the Service, tax compliance is not optional but a civic responsibility. It adds that failure to file annual returns within the stipulated period will attract the appropriate sanctions as provided by law. The IRS warned that it will no longer tolerate deliberate attempts by individuals or businesses to evade taxes or undermine the state's revenue system.
The chairman explained that internally generated revenue remains critical to funding key government projects, including infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, education, security, and other social services that directly impact the lives of Cross Riverians.
He noted that the current administration of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu is committed to fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability, and that effective tax administration is a cornerstone of these reforms.
CRIRS further disclosed that enforcement mechanisms have been strengthened, including improved data tracking, collaboration with relevant government agencies, and the deployment of technology to identify defaulters and block revenue leakages.
The Service urged residents, business owners, and corporate organizations to take advantage of its offices across the state to seek clarification and ensure timely compliance. Taxpayers were also encouraged to use approved payment channels to avoid falling victim to fraudsters.
Reassuring the public, CRIRS emphasized that revenues collected are being channelled towards development programmes aimed at improving the standard of living and accelerating the economic growth of Cross River State.
The agency called on all stakeholders to cooperate with the tax authority, noting that sustained compliance will help build a stronger, more prosperous Cross River for present and future generations.
CALABAR - The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on tax evasion, announcing a firm deadline for the filing of annual tax returns by individuals and corporate entities operating in the state.
Speaking in Calabar, the Executive Chairman of CRIRS stated that all taxable persons are required to file their annual returns on or before January 31, stressing that the directive is in line with existing tax laws and part of broader efforts to strengthen revenue generation for sustainable development in Cross River State.
According to the Service, tax compliance is not optional but a civic responsibility. It adds that failure to file annual returns within the stipulated period will attract the appropriate sanctions as provided by law. The IRS warned that it will no longer tolerate deliberate attempts by individuals or businesses to evade taxes or undermine the state's revenue system.
The chairman explained that internally generated revenue remains critical to funding key government projects, including infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, education, security, and other social services that directly impact the lives of Cross Riverians.
He noted that the current administration of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu is committed to fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability, and that effective tax administration is a cornerstone of these reforms.
CRIRS further disclosed that enforcement mechanisms have been strengthened, including improved data tracking, collaboration with relevant government agencies, and the deployment of technology to identify defaulters and block revenue leakages.
The Service urged residents, business owners, and corporate organizations to take advantage of its offices across the state to seek clarification and ensure timely compliance. Taxpayers were also encouraged to use approved payment channels to avoid falling victim to fraudsters.
Reassuring the public, CRIRS emphasized that revenues collected are being channelled towards development programmes aimed at improving the standard of living and accelerating the economic growth of Cross River State.
The agency called on all stakeholders to cooperate with the tax authority, noting that sustained compliance will help build a stronger, more prosperous Cross River for present and future generations.

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