Wike Launches RIVTAMIS, RIVTIN To Boost IGR

In a bid to enhance the ease of doing business and eliminate multiple taxation, the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, last Monday, flagged off the Rivers State Tax Management System (RIVTAMIS).
The governor also launched the issuance of the Rivers State Tax Identification Number (RIVTIN) and received the first RIVTIN Card from the Executive Chairman of Rivers State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Adoage Norteh.
Speaking at the flag off of RIVTAMIS and RIVTIN, Wike said that the innovations were part of his administration’s commitment to entrench effective platforms for the ease of doing business in the state.
He said that the new tax reform packages will identify all formal and informal businesses in the state, noting that the details will help the state government plan for development.
According to the governor, with the digital platforms, tax payments can be made from anywhere.
He said: “From April 1, 2018, all businesses are required to obtain their RIVTIN to pay taxes, levies and fines to the Rivers State Government.
“All banks have been mobilised to generate RIVTIN for all those who want to make payments to the Rivers State Government. Any business that fails to comply by June 1, 2018, will be appropriately sanctioned”, Wike said.
Chairman of Rivers State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Adoage Norteh said the tax system has been sanitised to check multiple taxation.
He said that the process will facilitate the tax payment process, enhance self-service and improve the revenue of the state.
“Right from the comfort of your office, you can obtain your tax clearance certificate and tax exemption”, he said.
Norteh said that the tax payer has a duty to reciprocate the tax friendliness of the state government.
President of Port Harcourt Chambers of Commerce, Mines and Industry, Dr Emi Membere-Otaji said that the business community was pleased by the innovations that have eliminated multiple taxation in the state.
Spokesman of Heritage Bank, Mr F.B. Briggs assured the state government that banks would cooperate to ensure that the programme succeeds.
Highpoint of the occasion was the presentation of RIVTIN to the governor and selected commissioners and special advisers.