Follow Us on Google
From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has urged governments, tax administrators, professionals, and taxpayers in the South East to work more closely to ensure the smooth implementation of Nigeria’s ongoing tax reform agenda.
The call was made, yesterday, in Enugu, during the South East zonal sensitisation programme, jointly organised by CITN and the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS), at the International Conference Centre, Enugu.
Speaking on the theme, “Strengthening tax administration in Nigeria’s federating states: A coordinated approach to implementing the tax reform agenda”, the 17th President/Chairman of Council of CITN, Innocent C. Ohagwa, emphasised that the real success of the reform would depend on how well states align with the implementation process.
“Strengthening tax administration in our federating states is not only about increasing revenue figures, it is about building strong institutions, ensuring that taxpayers understand the law, deploying technology intelligently, improving taxpayer services, and ensuring transparency and accountability. More importantly, it requires alignment to eliminate double taxation, reduce compliance costs, and create a tax system that is predictable, fair, and growth-oriented,” he said.
He explained that the sensitisation programme was designed to close knowledge gaps, promote voluntary compliance, and strengthen trust between the government and citizens.
“By bringing together policymakers, tax administrators, professionals, businesses, and operators within the informal sector, we are creating a platform for shared understanding of the reform agenda, practical engagement on implementation challenges, and consensus-building around best practices suited to our local realities,” he added.
Representing Governor Peter Mbah, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai, observed that taxation has long been misunderstood in many Nigerian communities due to its colonial roots, which made it appear punitive.
“Taxation is often fraught with anger and resentment because it was not originally part of our traditional system. During the colonial era, the way taxation was introduced made our people see it as punishment. That history led to riots and controversies that still influence public perception today,” Ossai said.
Other News
He noted, however, that efforts by tax authorities at federal and state levels to educate the public were gradually changing that perception.
“I am pleased that tax leadership at both federal and state levels is making deliberate efforts to help people understand taxation as a fundamental civic responsibility.
The current tax law, with its exemptions, has also helped to reduce tension by cushioning the impact on those within lower income brackets,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of ESIRS, Dr Ekene Nnamani, stressed the importance of engaging stakeholders in the South East, citing a survey which showed that the region was the least aligned with the provisions of the new tax law.
“A recent survey indicates that the South East is the least aligned regarding the new tax law. This makes it necessary to create an interface between those who make the law and those expected to implement and comply with it,” Nnamani said.
He described the reformed tax law as a major step forward, particularly for low-income earners, and cautioned against misinformation.
“The tax law is one of the best things to happen in Nigeria in recent times. It is largely designed to protect poor Nigerians through various exemptions. Unfortunately, some individuals are spreading fear among business owners and the public. That is why sensitisation like this is essential,” he added.
Participants at the event included representatives of state internal revenue services from across the South East, tax professionals, policymakers, traditional rulers, business operators, and members of the informal sector.
