Kogi will maximise benefits of new tax reforms – Ododo

From Emmanuel Adeyemi, Lokoja

Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has commended President Bola Tinubu for formulating new uniform tax reforms for all the states of the federation, saying the state will maximise its benefits.

The governor, while speaking at a sensitisation programme organised by the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) for technocrats, finance managers, auditors, and accountants in the state ministries, departments, and agencies, said with the new tax reforms there is no longer any chance for leakages and urged them to ensure they collect more value-added tax (VAT) for the state government.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Revenue, Dr Rahman Nasir Ichanyi, he said the new tax law embraces technology-driven processes that improve efficiency, reduce human interference, and promote accountability.

The 2025 Tax Acts, which will be domesticated by Kogi State, are distinguished by their simplicity, clarity, and taxpayer-friendly provisions. They harmonise tax obligations, remove incidences of multiple taxation, and provide clear guidelines that make compliance easier for taxpayers.

“Furthermore, the domesticated tax Acts will offer significant benefits to taxpayers by reducing compliance costs, ensuring fairness and equity, and fostering a more predictable and business-friendly tax environment.

“Ultimately, it strengthens the trust between government and taxpayers and ensures that revenues generated translate into improved public services and infrastructural development across the state.

“I also commend the management and staff of KGIRS for their professionalism, dedication, and proactive engagement with stakeholders. This sensitisation exercise reflects their resolve to ensure clarity, transparency, and inclusiveness in the implementation of the new tax framework.”

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of the State Revenue Service, Salihu Enehe, said previously state and local governments had over 46 various laws on revenue but that with the new tax reforms everything has been subsumed into nine laws.

He said the new law removes all excesses and tax duplications and called on citizens to have an open mind to the new tax laws, saying like the removal of oil subsidy, it may face a little criticism but it will benefit the masses in the long run.

The revenue boss commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his visionary leadership and steadfast support in ensuring the effective domestication and implementation of progressive federal fiscal policies.

He said his commitment to good governance and economic reforms continues to enhance fiscal discipline and sustainable development in the state.