Two Nigerian States Enact Laws Harmonizing Tax Collection

The states of Anambra and Zamfara have enacted new laws harmonizing internal revenue collection, officials confirmed Monday, aligning with a national push to simplify tax systems and improve the business climate.

The moves follow recent, similar reforms in Ekiti State and represent a growing consensus among state governments to modernize revenue administration.

Streamlining for Clarity and Efficiency

In Anambra, Gov. Charles Soludo signed the Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law, which provides a single, approved list for collections. The law aims to eliminate duplicate charges that have long frustrated residents and entrepreneurs.

“This law dismantles a fragmented system,” said a spokesperson for the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service. “It introduces a transparent, tech-driven framework centered on the people, not arbitrary enforcement.”

Similarly, in Zamfara, Gov. Dauda Lawal assented to legislation that repeals and re-enacts the state’s consolidated revenue laws. The statute formally establishes the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service, empowering it to assess, collect, and account for all state revenues under a unified legal framework.

Part of a Broader National Shift

These state-level actions reflect objectives outlined in President Bola Tinubu’s national tax reform agenda, which seeks to rationalize revenue collection across Nigeria.

Consequently, the reforms are expected to curb arbitrary collections, boost voluntary compliance, and restore public trust. Ultimately, advocates argue a predictable tax environment will attract more investment.

Other states, including Lagos, Katsina, and Bauchi, are reportedly advancing comparable legislative reviews. This signals a collective effort to harmonize sub-national revenue administration nationwide, marking a significant shift in sub-national economic policy.