Yobe State has banned its tax collectors from handling cash. All revenue payments must now go through digital channels only.
Alhaji Suleiman Bakura announced the policy at a stakeholders' meeting in Damaturu on Thursday. He heads the Yobe State Internal Revenue Service.
Bank transfers, Point of Sale terminals, and other electronic platforms are now the only approved payment methods. Cash transactions are completely prohibited.
According to Bakura, the move strengthens accountability and transparency in revenue collection. It also cuts fraud and stops money from disappearing.
Represented by Nasiru Habu Kiri, the YIRS chief explained the system creates proper documentation of all payments. Every transaction is now recorded digitally.
He noted the reform aligns with the state's push for digital transformation. Better governance and service delivery will follow, he added.
Bakura believes the cashless system will boost public trust in government revenue processes. It should also increase the state's internally generated revenue significantly.
The meeting was organised by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council and the Nigeria Governors' Forum. They're assessing business reforms across Nigeria's states.
Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, who leads PEBEC, explained the nationwide assessment's purpose. They want to identify problems and measure progress on reforms.
The council aims to make Nigeria's business environment more competitive and attractive. Investors need a climate that supports economic growth, she said.
Hajiya Amina Galadima, Secretary of Yobe's Ease of Doing Business Council, spoke about state enterprises. Several dormant ventures are being revived as viable economic assets.
Joint enterprises with Borno State, including FOMA North East, are being repositioned. These could create jobs and boost economic activity in the region.
Galadima revealed that investors are already interested in Yobe. Many have completed site visits and are negotiating business deals.
Several prospective investors are engaging with the state's Public-Private Partnership agency. These discussions are at various stages, she confirmed.
Yobe State demonstrated its commitment to business environment improvements at the forum. Transparency, investment attraction, and private sector participation remain key priorities.
The state believes these reforms will drive sustainable economic development. Digital taxation is just one part of the broader strategy ahead.
