Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because they want to do it.” – Dwight D. Eisenhower. This statement rings true for Hajiya Aisha Adamu Yaro Gombe, an economist, accountant, and expert in leadership and financial management.

One hundred days ago, His Excellency Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON appointed Aisha Adamu as the first female head of the highest revenue-generating authority in Gombe State, the Gombe State Internal Revenue Service (GIRS). This decision was based on her proven track record and achievements in her previous positions.

Living up to expectations, Hajiya Aisha hit the ground running. She skillfully combined her expertise and experience with prudence, pragmatism, and wisdom. In just 100 days, Aisha has propelled GIRS to new heights, achieving unprecedented results in this short period. She has made giant strides, especially in areas of revenue collection, taxpayer services, and internal efficiency within the service.

Under Aisha’s prudent leadership, GIRS managed to raise revenue collection from 1.2 billion to 1.8 billion in May 2024, an increase of over 600 million in just one month. This significant growth was achieved through a multi-pronged approach.

Aisha championed the enforcement of the Development Levy and implemented improved collection strategies. She also reduced costs through vendor engagement and increased vehicle pool efficiency. Additionally, GIRS offered alternative payment methods, eliminating cash collection, and provided clearer tax details with a strengthened Single Demand Notice.

In the area of taxpayer services, the service has taken significant steps in the past three months to make tax processes easier for residents. Aisha implemented SMS notifications across all platforms and established a dedicated department for High-Net-Worth Individuals. GIRS also collaborated with relevant entities like NFIU and PCN to tackle tax avoidance in specific sectors. They successfully apprehended and prosecuted a document forger involved in tax evasion.

Furthermore, GIRS activated Waterboard Area Offices for improved revenue collection and bill management. Partnerships with government agencies like the Education Ministry and Due Process Office ensure tax compliance. Additionally, collaboration with government bodies like GOSUPDA and GOGIS facilitates the collection of pre-permit taxes and ground rent. Engagement with Local Government Chairmen further fosters revenue-boosting strategies and dispute resolution.

In the past three months, internal efficiency and staff development within the service have undergone a significant transformation. GIRS is currently undergoing a technological revolution with the initiation of a new Integrated Tax Administration System to fully automate their processes. Efficiency at the local level is also being addressed through training for LGA revenue supervisors. The organization has provided cost-effective internet access with unlimited data and improved communication with corporate email for staff.

Collaboration with USAID through the State to State program offers staff additional training opportunities. Knowledge sharing is further encouraged through management study tours led by EC GIRS. GIRS prioritizes the well-being of staff, stakeholders, and taxpayers with stimulus packages and increased social media engagement for taxpayer education campaigns.

More so, Hajiya Aisha Adamu has started on a promising note, and the Gombe State Internal Revenue Service could not have asked for a better leader than a born economist. Her commitment to work is commendable. She has zero tolerance for corruption, a quality of immense value at a time when integrity is scarce. With Aisha, a dependable and accountable leader at the helm of GIRS, the journey has been successful and the greater achievements are yet to unfold.