Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, recently asserted that Nigeria stands on the brink of significant progress if the nation can successfully refine its tax administration. He shared these sentiments while hosting representatives from the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), headed by their President, Innocent Ohagwa.
During the meeting in Abuja, Oyedele lauded the CITN for launching a National Tax Awareness Day and backing federal reform efforts. He emphasized that the government’s primary goal is not to hike tax rates but to expand the base of contributors and foster equity. He noted that many citizens currently perceive taxation as a predatory government extraction rather than a civic contribution, highlighting the urgent need for better public education.
Ohagwa explained that the institute organized this awareness initiative to clarify common misunderstandings, noting that rumors on social media have led to confusion regarding whether reforms represent new financial burdens or tools for government revenue generation. He argued that taxation functions effectively only when a foundation of mutual trust exists, requiring the government to demonstrate accountability alongside citizen compliance.
To support this, CITN branches organized diverse outreach programs, including symposiums and radio campaigns, under the theme: “Tax Awareness for National Growth Through Reforms, Compliance and Shared Prosperity.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), described these reforms as a transformative era for the country. Represented by Muhammad Lawal, Adedeji reiterated that the administration is focused on building a system that is transparent, efficient, and technology-driven. He concluded that fostering voluntary compliance through education is essential, as the government seeks to shift the perception of tax payments from a simple legal mandate to an active, conscious role in national building.
