Governor Alex Otti has announced the relaunch of the Abia State Social Identification Number (ABSSIN) as part of efforts to improve economic planning and combat multiple taxation in the state. The initiative, aimed at enhancing citizen welfare, is set to take effect from March 2, according to Commissioner for Information and Culture, Okey Kanu.
Speaking during a news conference at the Government House in Umuahia, Commissioner Kanu emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting social protection and inclusion in governance through the ABSSIN program. He stated, “The government is taking this issue very seriously. This government has been very intentional in its plans, very strategic in execution of its plans and very determined to enhance living standards of the citizens.”
Abia State Internal Revenue Services (ABIRS) Chairman, Udochukwu Ogbonna, outlined the mandatory nature of ABSSIN registration for all residents. Ogbonna explained that individuals can obtain their ABSSIN by registering online via the ‘Abiapay online’ platform, at ABIRS offices across the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs), or through designated ministries.
Highlighting the significance of ABSSIN, Ogbonna stressed its role in consolidating citizens’ financial activities and facilitating access to government benefits. He noted, “When you are paying your tax, you are supposed to quote this number. What that means is that every transaction you are doing in the state will come under one account, that is to say that, ABSSN is the account number of every citizen in Abia state.”
Furthermore, Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Kingsley Anosike, underscored ABSSIN’s importance as a data source for economic planning and social benefit distribution. Anosike emphasized the efficiency of the system, stating, “Once you register, all your information situated in that platform becomes easier to reach you, whether it is for an emergency, whatever it is.”
Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue, Chimeremeze Okigbo, reiterated the government’s commitment to strategic economic planning and security enhancement through ABSSIN. Okigbo emphasized the program’s role in bolstering security measures to maintain a crime-free environment in the state.
Regarding accessibility and cost, Okigbo assured residents that ABSSIN registration is free of charge, emphasizing its multifaceted benefits beyond tax payment. He added, “ABSSIN is not only for tax payment. It will help you to have access to certain benefits that are coming from the government, which include scholarships.”
The relaunch of ABSSIN aligns with the government’s overarching goal of fostering economic growth, enhancing citizen welfare, and improving governance effectiveness in Abia State. As the program rolls out, residents are urged to register promptly to avail themselves of the various benefits and streamline their financial transactions within the state.
