Ikorodu City Secures Liberian Goalkeeper Derrick Julu on a Two-Year Contract

In a strategic move to bolster their squad, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club Ikorodu City has officially signed Derrick Julu, a talented goalkeeper from Liberia. Julu arrives from Watanga FC, a dominant force in Liberian football, having clinched the Liberian First Division title twice.

Strengthening the Squad with International Talent

Ikorodu City’s management expressed enthusiasm about acquiring Julu, highlighting his experience as a key asset. “We are thrilled to welcome Derrick Julu, the Liberian national team goalkeeper, to our ranks on a two-year contract,” the club announced during his unveiling. This signing adds to the growing contingent of foreign players enriching the NPFL’s competitive landscape.

Anticipated Role and Upcoming Challenges

Julu is expected to compete fiercely for the starting goalkeeper position, aiming to become a cornerstone of Ikorodu City’s defense. His arrival comes ahead of the club’s season opener against Kwara United, a match that will test the team’s readiness and cohesion.

Foreign Influence in the NPFL: A Growing Trend

The NPFL has seen a steady increase in international players, with clubs seeking to enhance their squads by tapping into talent pools across Africa. Players like Julu bring diverse experience and skills, contributing to the league’s rising standards and global appeal. According to recent statistics, foreign players now constitute approximately 15% of NPFL rosters, reflecting this trend.

Looking Ahead: Ikorodu City’s Ambitions

With Julu’s addition, Ikorodu City aims to improve their defensive solidity and overall performance in the upcoming season. The club’s management and fans alike are optimistic that this signing will be instrumental in achieving their competitive goals.

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Thousands of Major Taxpayers Still Pending Completion of FIRS E-Invoicing Registration

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has introduced the e-invoicing platform, commonly referred to as the Merchant-Buyer Model, to streamline tax processes. This digital system is designed to enhance the efficiency, speed, and transparency of tax compliance for all taxpayer segments, particularly large-scale businesses.

Current Status of E-Invoicing Adoption Among Large Taxpayers

Despite the clear benefits and regulatory requirements, over 4,000 large taxpayers have yet to finalize their onboarding onto the FIRS e-invoicing system. This delay poses challenges to the government’s efforts to modernize tax administration and improve revenue collection.

Understanding the Merchant-Buyer Model and Its Impact

The Merchant-Buyer Model facilitates real-time exchange of invoice data between sellers and buyers, ensuring accuracy and reducing the risk of tax evasion. By automating invoice generation and submission, the system minimizes manual errors and accelerates the tax filing process.

Why Timely Compliance Matters

With Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio hovering around 6%, significantly below the global average of approximately 15%, the adoption of e-invoicing is critical to boosting government revenue. Prompt integration into the e-invoicing system will not only help taxpayers avoid penalties but also contribute to a more transparent and accountable fiscal environment.

Steps for Large Taxpayers to Complete Onboarding

Taxpayers are encouraged to visit the official FIRS portal to register and complete the e-invoicing setup. The process involves submitting business details, integrating invoicing software with the FIRS platform, and undergoing verification. Support and guidance are available through FIRS helpdesks and online resources.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tax Compliance in Nigeria

As digital transformation accelerates globally, Nigeria’s move towards mandatory e-invoicing aligns with international best practices. Countries like South Africa and Kenya have reported significant improvements in tax compliance and revenue collection following similar implementations. Embracing this technology will position Nigerian businesses for greater efficiency and foster a culture of tax responsibility.