The Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially launched the 2025 Single Interstate Road Tax Sticker (SIRTS), an initiative aimed at streamlining tax payments and addressing multiple taxation in Nigeria’s transport sector.
The unveiling, which took place on Thursday at the IRS office in Abeokuta, was spearheaded by the Director of Other Taxes, Mrs. Oluyomi Daudu.
She emphasized that the new system is designed to enhance transparency, ease tax compliance for transport operators, and improve the regulation of interstate transport operations.
Daudu assured stakeholders of the state’s full commitment to the initiative, which is expected to unify road tax systems across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory under the coordination of a national board.
“Ogun State, being a pacesetter, is committed to upholding the agreement we have with SIRTS. Unlike others who violate the agreement, we are determined to work within the framework to ensure smooth implementation,” Daudu stated.
Explaining the purpose of the initiative, Daudu noted that SIRTS aims to eliminate the burden of multiple stickers on vehicles and simplify the tax process for motorists.
She acknowledged potential challenges but reaffirmed Ogun State’s readiness to collaborate with vendors to ensure a seamless transition.
“Rather than procuring stickers from other states, we plan to collaborate with vendors to ensure that the process meets their needs.
Once finalized by internal revenue authorities, updates will be provided,” she said.
Daudu also addressed concerns about increasing competition from other states adopting SIRTS, which she said could affect Ogun’s revenue from sticker sales.
She assured vendors that the issue is under review by the IRS management.
The coordinator of the SIRTS project, Ajewole Babatope Blessing, described the initiative as a “game-changer” since its inception in 2023.
Speaking at the launch, he highlighted its role in eliminating unauthorized revenue collection and reducing delays caused by multiple revenue agents on Nigeria’s roads.
“With SIRTS, drivers can move freely without interruptions. The main purpose of this initiative is to put an end to multiple taxation and the unnecessary delays caused by various vendor agents,” Ajewole explained.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges, Ajewole pointed out that the initiative has already reduced the stress faced by motorists, noting significant improvements in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Vendors and consultants present at the launch praised the program for its efficiency and potential to transform revenue collection.
A vendor, Mr. Adesina Olalekan, underscored the importance of SIRTS in ensuring smooth interstate travel and preventing harassment by law enforcement.
He assured stakeholders of robust security measures to guard against counterfeiting and unregistered agents infiltrating the system.
“There are security features on the stickers to guard against counterfeiting. All agents must be registered and backed by guarantors, ensuring that only credible individuals are involved,” Olalekan said.
Another consultant, Alli Kassim Olatubonsun, commended the Joint Tax Board (JTB) for introducing the initiative, which he said has brought order to the previously disorganized tax system.
“Eliminating multiple documents has been a major achievement. Since its commencement, we have aligned with the process, and it has given us clear direction,” Alli stated.
The launch of the 2025 Single Interstate Road Tax Sticker reaffirms Ogun State’s leadership in tax administration and its commitment to reducing the burdens on motorists.
Stakeholders called for continuous support for the initiative, emphasizing its role in creating a smoother and more efficient transportation system nationwide.
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