by admin | Apr 21, 2025 | government, government regulations, laws and regulations, money, technology
In an effort to enhance service delivery and boost internal revenue generation for the government, the Bauchi State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) has implemented and rolled out technological solutions into their operations.
As a result, to implement and refine the new initiative, the Board led by its Executive Chairman, Alhaji Mu’azu Umar, convened a roundtable discussion with several key stakeholders. During this meeting, certain common understandings were achieved.
Mu’azu who disclosed this in an interactive session with Journalists in Bauchi, stated that a meeting held between the Board and all the 20 LGCs Chairpersons was aimed to address major challenges especially of multiple taxation, thereby harmonizing collections and blocking leakages.
At present, various agencies are gathering revenues, and taxpayers often claim payment to specific entities without being able to verify either the exact amounts or timing. These issues will be addressed moving forward,” he stated. “We had an extensive conversation with the chairpersons who agreed with our stance.
The BIRS Executive Chairman stated that efficiency needs to be maintained throughout the procedure, noting that an automated system will be implemented since the capabilities at the state level surpass those available at the local government level.
As he stated, “Automation will be crucial, eliminating cash collection and doing away with the manual procedures involved in gathering and recording revenues.”
So, these measures will expedite the collection process, minimize losses, and simplify things since we aim to make it effortless for taxpayers. This way, their costs related to compliance will remain minimal. We planned to initiate this around late January and hope to commence it during this upcoming quarter starting in April, God willing.
The Executive Chairman highlighted numerous transportation unions along with several important stakeholders in the process of generating revenue. However, he mentioned that managing road taxes has posed significant difficulties for the Board historically. Despite these challenges, he conveyed his thanks to God as they are currently surmounting these obstacles.
“We encountered issues since there was no strict implementation of road taxes until recently, when Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed launched the Bauchi State Road Traffic Agency BAROTA. The board is now collaborating with this agency to explore ways to enhance compliance with traffic rules within the state,” he mentioned additionally.
According to Mu’azu Usman, the BIRS has partnered with various transportation unions including NURTW, RTEAN, Achaba, and Keke Napep to implement regulations concerning road taxes. He mentioned that they have initiated weight billing and manifest systems through the collaboration of these unions.
“We are currently requiring updates from Achaba and Keke NAPEP operators to ensure accurate records. For the Keke NAPEP vehicles, we are implementing body numbering to identify those involved in this business effectively. This measure aims to enhance security, improve road safety, and increase revenue,” he stated.
Thus, the Executive Chairman expressed appreciation for the backing provided by State Governor Sen Bala Muhammad, acknowledging the conducive atmosphere he facilitated for the Board’s operations.
He urged the taxpayers to increase their efforts in making timely payments, as this would help the government deliver more benefits of democratic governance. He highlighted that from 2020 until now, all ongoing capital projects within the state have been funded solely through locally generated income.
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by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | business, government regulations, passports and international travel, tourists, Travel
Despite warnings, the expansion of a UK travel permit scheme to EU visitors is not impacting tourism to Northern Ireland according to some businesses in the sector.
Starting Tuesday, travelers from the European Union will join others worldwide in requiring an electronic travel authorization (ETA) for entry into the UK.
The leader of the Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance has stated that this situation creates an obstacle for visitors who enter the Republic of Ireland and might want to explore Northern Ireland as well.
Nonetheless, a hotel chain and a travel agency have informed SANGGRALOKA that they haven’t experienced any effects on their operations.
Colin Johnston, the managing director of the Galgorm Collection, stated that although the industry had lobbied against the ETA, when it was properly communicated to tourists, “they find it acceptable and comprehend it.”
During his appearance on the SANGGRALOKA’s Talkback program, he mentioned that some participants were unnerved by the considerable negative coverage of the ETA in the media. He also noted that “by persistently discussing it, we might be causing more harm to ourselves.”
Heather Rennie McGill from the touring company Rabbie’s mentioned that this situation boils down to “improving communication and making it easier for customers to handle the necessary legal requirements for entering the country.”
When the ETA was initially implemented in 2023 for travelers heading to the UK from non-EU countries, she mentioned that it affected “the quality of service or customer care we needed to provide,” however, she did not observe any effect on our reservations.
She mentioned that the system was inducing stress among certain customers and imposing an unwanted additional expense.
The British government has stated that the ETA will assist in stopping misuse of the immigration framework.
‘Deeply concerned’
The leader of the Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance, Joanne Stuart, has stated that several tour operators are excluding Northern Ireland from their trip plans to the island of Ireland as a result of the program’s growth.
We are highlighted as part of the island of Ireland, and this has consistently been rooted in effortless travel experiences.
She informed the SANGGRALOKA that 69% of those vacationing in Northern Ireland arrive via the Republic.
We’ve placed this obstacle in our path… and now we’re beginning to feel the effects of it.
During her address at the Northern Ireland Assembly on Tuesday, Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald expressed deep concern regarding the consequences of implementing the ETA scheme and how this would affect the region’s tourism industry.
Archibald mentioned that she had interacted with the UK government just last week regarding this matter and reiterated her call for an exemption of Northern Ireland from the plan.
Previously requested exemptions for Northern Ireland
were rejected
According to the previous UK government, this would lead to “an unacceptably large gap” in United Kingdom border security.
What does ETA stand for, and how can you obtain one?
The ETA is a document required for non-British and non-Irish citizens who don’t need a visa but wish to enter the UK.
This will cover international tourists who land in Dublin with intentions to visit Northern Ireland afterward.
The current application cost for the UK ETA via the app or the GOV.UK website is £10; however, starting from April 9th, this fee will increase to £16.
As stated on the official government site, applicants for an ETA typically receive a response within 3 business days; however, they also mention that numerous applications may result in “an even faster outcome.”
The travel journalist Lisa Minot informed SANGGRALOKANews NI that for most individuals, it should take merely a few minutes.
A visa subclass ETA is valid for 2 years or up until your passport expires, allowing you unlimited visits to the UK during this period.
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UK denies travel permit exception for Northern Ireland visitors
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Tourism leader claims travel permits will negatively affect Northern Ireland’s hotel industry.
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Minister cautions about effects of electronic travel authorization
by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, customs, government, government regulations, news
The Nigeria Customs Service has stated that the reported extension of tenure for the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, is untrue.
Abdullahi Maiwada, who serves as the National Public Relations Officer for the organization, issued a statement on Tuesday stating that these reports were incorrect and deceptive.
He stated that the President has exclusive authority over the appointment and extension of terms for members of the CGC, as per the guidelines set out in the NCS Act 2023 and other pertinent rules overseeing public sector appointments.
“The National Customs Service has noticed a fraudulent statement purportedly issued by the State House concerning an extension of the term for the CGC, Adewale Adeniyi. The NCS strongly wants to clarify that this information is incorrect and deceptive,” stated Maiwada.
He emphasized again that currently, no such instruction has been passed along to the NCS by the relevant bodies.
Maiwada insisted that the leadership of the organization continues to concentrate on achieving its legal responsibilities which include promoting trade, generating income, and ensuring border safety.
As per his statement, with the oversight of the present CGC, the organization has kept pushing forward significant changes designed to “update customs procedures, boost cooperation among different agencies, and foster the country’s economic development.”
The spokesperson for the NCS requested that both the general public and all involved parties refer solely to official sources for precise details about the organization.
He stressed that any updates about assignments or term decisions will be officially conveyed via the relevant governmental bodies.
“The service values the ongoing support from stakeholders and continues to be dedicated to maintaining transparency, demonstrating professionalism, and serving the nation,” he stated.
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | europe, european union, government regulations, passports and international travel, Travel
An upcoming ETA electronic permit for European travelers entering the UK will be launched tomorrow as part of significant changes to travel regulations.
The government asserts that the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system will enhance the nation’s border security.
Travelers from approximately 30 European nations, which include all EU member states except for Ireland, will be required to have an electronic authorization to visit Britain.
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which has been implemented for U.S., Canadian, and other visa-free travelers since January, can now be obtained via a mobile application or the official government website.
Applicants will be charged £10 initially, however this fee is scheduled to increase to £16 starting from April 9th.
Even with the sudden and rapid rise in the permit fee, successful candidates will be granted visitations lasting up to half a year, and this authorization will remain effective for a period of two years.
To submit an application, visitors must provide a picture of both their passport and themselves. The process usually takes about 10 minutes; however, many applications receive a response within moments, though some may require up to three business days for processing.
The estimated time of arrival is subsequently connected to the traveler’s passport through digital means.
Migration Minister Seema Malhotra, as quoted according to reports,
France24
, stated: ‘Through the digitalization of the immigration system, we are setting the stage for a touch-free UK border.’
Under pressure from Heathrow, passengers transiting through airports without going through border control will not be included in the scheme.
ETAs were initially introduced in 2023 for Qatar and six Gulf nations before being extended to cover an additional 50 countries.
By the close of 2024, nearly 1.1 million ETAs had been issued.
The growth of the program coincides with the EU’s preparation to introduce its ETIAS system for visa-free nations such as the UK and the US by 2026.
An ETIAS application will be submitted via an official EU website and will have a fee of 7 euros.
Candidates ought to get a response within four days.
After obtaining an ETIAS, a traveler can use it for entry into the bloc multiple times over a period of three years.
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by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | federal government, government, government regulations, politics, politics and government
On Sunday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated in Abuja that his government took the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) out of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) with the aim of accelerating development and increasing residents’ involvement in governance.
The President, who welcomed FCT residents at the Presidential Villa during the Sallah celebrations, mentioned that the red tape related to TSA was obstructing infrastructural development in the capital city and needed to be reassessed for better outcomes and advancements.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, guided the residents during the tribute.
President Tinubu emphasized that removing the TSA constraints for the FCT has quickly spurred advancements in infrastructure, improved healthcare services, and boosted security measures.
I recall the moment when the FCT Minister visited me and requested that we remove them from the issue with the TSA, allowing for greater productivity. I responded by asking him to demonstrate their proposed actions, after which he shared his thoughts and beliefs.
And then things began to change quickly. I noticed the development of rural regions by the FCT, the revival of neglected initiatives, and the finishing of the Vice President’s official dwelling which had been left incomplete for many years. The FCT restored healthcare centers, improved facilities for students, and supplied new furniture.
President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to the FCT Minister for demonstrating that freedom from bureaucratic constraints was essential. The minister also reorganized the FCT public sector to encourage civil servants to aim for greater roles and take on leadership responsibilities.
“We wouldn’t have been able to cheer if it weren’t for the forward-thinking concepts you introduced at FCT. Now we can applaud the inventive ideas that were brought to FCT,” stated President Tinubu.
President Tinubu urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory and other Nigerians to move past divisions based on ethnicity and religion when selecting leaders, emphasizing instead on achieving tangible outcomes.
Today, we enjoy peace, with security conditions getting better. The fight against hunger is making progress as food prices decline. This allows us to venture into markets and engage in commerce freely. Furthermore, our diversity and self-belief continue to grow stronger.
The President emphasized that we are not seeking miracles but rather tangible outcomes and comfort. He also expressed hope for good health and mentioned our desire for someone who genuinely cares.
“The role extends beyond Wike or myself; it involves everybody. Nyesom Wike exemplifies the diversity within Nigeria. By reinforcing this diversity, he has contributed to fostering prosperity, illustrating that each of us belongs to a single household, sharing the same abode, residing in various rooms yet united beneath one roof,” stated the President.
President Tinubu called for increased tolerance, open-mindedness, and a stronger sense of patriotism.
“I simply ask for tolerance, which has guided us thus far. We have gained insights during Ramadan. Let these lessons remain with us,” he stated.
The Minister of FCT expressed gratitude to the President for welcoming the residents at the State House.
This visit represents a significant milestone because for the first time, the FCT residents have the opportunity to personally convey their warmest regards and heartfelt wishes to you during this auspicious time. We are truly thrilled to be here.
Wike vowed his allegiance to the President and dedicated himself to advancing the development of the capital city, promising that the Federal Capital Territory would shortly finish numerous initiatives.
“Even with our different origins, we stand unified behind your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he noted.
Sen. Kashim Shettima, the Vice President; Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser; and Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, were present at the event.
The FCT contingent comprised representatives from the National Assembly, judicial branch, religious and traditional authorities, heads of security agencies, as well as women’s and youth organizations.
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by admin | Mar 28, 2025 | business, government, government regulations, laws and regulations, smuggling
MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized an estimated P30 million worth of allegedly contraband sugar at the Port of Subic, as reported by the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA).
Pablo Luis Azcona, the SRA administrator, stated that the Bureau of Customs (BOC) detained the release of 10,000 sacks holding 500 metric tons of incorrectly declared sugar imports from Vietnam.
The SRA refrained from revealing the consignee, stating that it was still unaware of the importer’s identity.
During a press briefing on Tuesday night, Azcona stated that the substance seized roughly three weeks prior consisted of 88% sucrose and 12% dextrose but was falsely identified as simply white sweetener.
‘Not sugar’
“It is officially classified as something other than sugar. Nevertheless, they are undergoing tests to assess their sugar content,” he explained, noting that the SRA sent out staff members to collect samples for chemical examination.
“I get this impression from the packaging and overall look of it; it appears to be meant for reselling. However, that’s just my personal view,” he stated to the press.
Azcona stated that the tests will determine whether the substance is actually sugar. Should this be verified, the BOC will either seize it or auction it off through the Kadiwa store.
Up for auction
“Typically, seized sugar is either sold or put up for auction. Nevertheless, our proposal suggests that prior to being auctioned off, the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) ought to categorize it for use within households. This reclassification would allow us to keep track of the quantities involved,” he explained further.
Azcona highlighted that an increase in these products might destabilize the whole sugarcane sector.
“If items are slipping through undetected this way—since our strategies rely on our output and the sugar we lawfully bring in—it could spoil our plans,” he further stated.
According to the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, acts such as smuggling, stockpiling, and engaging in cartels related to farm produce are classified as economic sabotage.
The illegal transport and stockpiling of farm produce can be classified as economic sabotage if the worth of the items goes beyond P10 million.
