CITN, Enugu IRS Sensitise Southeast on New Tax Reform Agenda

Gideon Arinze in Enugu 

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), in collaboration with the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS), has held a Southeast zonal sensitisation programme aimed at strengthening tax administration across Nigeria’s federating states through a coordinated approach to implementing the tax reform agenda.

The programme, held in Enugu yesterday, brought together policymakers, tax administrators, professionals, business owners and operators within the informal sector to improve understanding of the newly enacted tax laws and address implementation challenges, particularly at the sub-national level.

Speaking at the event, the 17th President and Chairman of Council of CITN, Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, described the theme, “Strengthening Tax Administration in Nigeria’s Federating States: A Coordinated Approach to Implementing the Tax Reform Agenda” as timely and critical. 

He noted that while Nigeria has recorded significant progress in designing one of the most comprehensive tax reforms in its history, the success of the reforms depends largely on effective, coordinated and consistent implementation, especially by states.

Ohagwa said that strengthening tax administration goes beyond increasing revenue figures, stressing the need to build strong institutions, ensure taxpayers understand the law, deploy technology effectively, improve taxpayer services and promote transparency and accountability. 

He added that alignment among federal and state tax authorities is necessary to eliminate double taxation, reduce compliance costs and create a predictable, fair and growth-oriented tax system.

In his address, Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented Governor Peter Mbah commended the decision of tax leadership both at the federal and state level to make the public understand and see taxation as a fundamental responsibility. 

On his part, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Emmanuel Ekene, said that the Southeast remains the least informed zone regarding the new tax law, noting the sensitisation was necessary to address widespread misconceptions. 

Ekene said the programme would help residents of the region understand the provisions of the law and how it benefits individuals and businesses.

He noted that poor awareness had fueled fear and resistance, contributing to low compliance levels in the region.

He acknowledged the deep distrust between government and citizens, noting that many people believe taxes are misused. However, he said efforts are being made to rebuild trust through transparency and accountability, including measures that allow citizens to track how much revenue is collected and how it is utilised.