The Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESiRS), Mr. Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani, has called on the business community in Enugu to embrace the state government’s tax reforms as a means of fostering economic growth and sustainable development. Nnamani made this appeal on Thursday (yesterday) during the 1st Business Community Interactive Forum on Tax Matters held at ECCIMA House, Enugu. The forum, themed “Building Synergy in Achieving Enugu State Development Through Tax Policies & Administration: Government and Business Community Roles,” was organized in collaboration with the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (ECCIMA).
Speaking to participants comprising traders, shareholders, and other stakeholders, Nnamani emphasized the transformative agenda of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, describing it as a turning point for the state. He stated, “This administration is determined to ensure that Enugu competes with the best economies in the world. To achieve this, the business community must understand the importance of tax compliance and its role in driving development.” He reassured attendees that efforts are underway to improve the ease of doing business in the state.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by past administrations regarding trust deficit among citizens, the ESiRS Chairman highlighted the need for renewed trust between the government and the business sector. We are here to change that narrative and give you reasons to believe in the vision of this government,” he said. He further urged stakeholders to view tax payment as a civic responsibility, adding, “Paying your taxes is not just an obligation; it is a commitment to the progress of our state.”
The President of ECCIMA, Sir Odeiga Jideonwo, who also spoke at the forum, commended the initiative as a significant step toward sustainable economic development. “This forum represents an opportunity for stakeholders to identify and address barriers hindering business growth in Enugu,” Jideonwo noted. He expressed concerns over the multiplicity of levies and taxes across local government areas, stating that such practices have led to business closures, job losses, and reduced operational capacities of the State in the past.
Jideonwo advocated for legislative reforms to establish a centralized tax framework, stressing its importance in fostering an investment-friendly environment. “Addressing these challenges is essential for sustaining existing businesses and attracting new investments,” he said. He also commended Governor Mbah for his visionary leadership and commitment to the state’s progress.
Participants at the forum lauded the initiative and called for regular engagements between the government and the business community. The forum concluded with a resolution to document decisions made, which will serve as a resource for shaping tax policies and driving reforms in Enugu State.