Personal Background

Ahmed Yakubu Muhammad, an esteemed tax professional and a dedicated public servant, was born on May 30th, 1974, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. He hails from Lafia Local Government Area in Nasarawa State. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a visionary leader, particularly in the field of revenue generation and management.

Educational Background

Ahmed Yakubu Muhammad’s academic journey began at Township Primary School, Jos (1976-1982), followed by Federal Government College, Jos (1982-1988). He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. Hons) degree from the University of Jos in 2005 and furthered his studies with a Postgraduate Program at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, in 2017. His quest for knowledge is evidenced by his participation in various professional and specialized training programs, including:

• Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Public Policy Analysis.
• Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).
• Fellow Association of Business Managers of Nigeria.
• Certifications in report writing, alternative sources of funding, diversification of the Nigerian economy, and sustainable revenue development.

Professional Experience

Ahmed Yakubu Muhammad brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles in both the private and public sectors. His career began with MVA Mineral and Metals Mining Company (1990-2000), where he gathered skills in resource management. He later served at the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (2006-2017), where he contributed significantly to Nigeria’s revenue allocation processes. As the Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Internal Revenue Service, Ahmed Yakubu Muhammad has been at the forefront of transforming the state's revenue generation and administration. His leadership has been instrumental in implementing innovative strategies that have significantly increased the state's revenue.

Notable Achievements

Under Ahmed Yakubu Muhammad’s leadership, the NSIRS has witnessed unprecedented growth and development. His key achievements include:

1. Human Resource Development:
   • Employed 324 new staff members to enhance revenue collection.
   • Sponsored staff to acquire higher education and professional certifications, including PhD, MSc, BSc, ICAN, ANAN, and CITN.
   • Regular training and re-training of staff, both within and outside Nasarawa State.
2. Infrastructure and Operational Improvements:
   • Established two Liaison Offices and eight Area Tax Offices.
   • Introduced internet services and an active website across zonal and area tax offices, enhancing connectivity, productivity, and efficiency.
   • Installed air conditioning systems in all offices and ensured continuous power supply with a 24/7 functional generator.
   • Massive renovation of ENDL Centres, Board offices, and staff quarters.
3. Revenue Enhancement Initiatives:
   • Achieved a 400% increase in revenue generation.
   • Recovered over N300 billion for the Nasarawa State Government.
   • Introduced the Central Billing System (CBS) and e-Tax Clearance, which drastically reduced revenue leakages and automated tax assessment and collection processes.
   • Introduced specialized POS systems to facilitate taxpayer payments.
   • Expanded the tax net by introducing new revenue heads.
4. Legal and Policy Reforms:
   • Spearheaded the enactment of the Nasarawa State Revenue Harmonization Law in 2020.
   • Established State Revenue Courts in Karu and Lafia for tax enforcement.
   • Spearheaded the introduction and approval of autonomy of the Board.
5. Community and Staff Welfare:
   • Introduced periodic welfare package for staff.
   • Provided financial assistance to families of deceased NSIRS staff and gifts for staff during significant life events.
   • Sponsored staff on pilgrimages to Jerusalem and Saudi Arabia.
   • Introduced End Of Year awards to deserving staff.
6. Innovation and Technology:
   • Launched a dedicated website for the Board and Service.
   • Introduced advanced technologies, including a new payment platform (Bank 3D) and Central Billing System (CBS).
   • Increased the number of ENDL Centres to three, located in Akwanga, Keffi, and Lafia.