Minister Calls for Enhanced Collaboration with CITN to Transform Tax Compliance
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economic Affairs, Taiwo Oyedele, expressed concern yesterday over Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to generate adequate tax revenue despite significant reforms. He highlighted that a large segment of eligible taxpayers continues to neglect their national responsibilities.
Understanding Tax Reform Requires Public Engagement
According to Oyedele, the real challenge lies not in increasing tax rates but in ensuring that individuals and businesses fulfill their tax obligations within a fair and transparent framework. His remarks were made in Abuja during the inaugural National Tax Awareness Day Road Walk, organized by the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), under the leadership of Innocent Ohagwa.
CITN Launches Nationwide Campaign to Enhance Tax Knowledge
The minister commended the CITN for its support of the federal government’s tax reform initiatives and for its efforts to enhance public understanding of taxation. He noted that many Nigerians harbor misconceptions about the tax system, urging the institute to intensify its advocacy and educational efforts.
The Importance of Fairness in Tax Administration
Oyedele emphasized that taxes should not merely be perceived as a financial burden imposed by the government but as a vital vehicle for national development. “We are not collecting enough tax revenue yet. Rather than focusing solely on tax increases, it is crucial that those who owe taxes fulfill their responsibilities properly. My goal is to promote fairness in tax administration,” he stated.
The Impact of an Efficient Tax System on National Development
The minister underscored that a well-functioning tax system could substantially improve infrastructure, public services, and overall economic growth. He proposed that CITN introduce annual awards recognizing the most tax-compliant individuals and organizations to encourage voluntary compliance and celebrate responsible taxpayers.
Commitment to Tax Awareness and Compliance
Earlier in the day, representatives from the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and CITN reaffirmed their dedication to fostering tax awareness, voluntary compliance, and fiscal sustainability in conjunction with National Tax Awareness Day 2026. Dr. Zach Adedeji, Executive Chairman of NRS, noted that the event was particularly significant as it marked the first anniversary of Nigeria’s groundbreaking tax reform bill.
Modernizing Tax Administration through Technology
Adedeji highlighted that these reforms signify the beginning of a new era in tax administration characterized by simplicity, fairness, transparency, efficiency, and enhanced service delivery. He stated that the NRS is committed to developing trusted, technology-driven tax management systems that address the needs of both businesses and the public.
Engaging the Public in Tax Compliance Initiatives
Tax awareness is pivotal for achieving these objectives, as sustainable revenue mobilization cannot rely solely on enforcement measures. “Taxpayer education, trust, transparency, and confidence in public institutions are essential to improve compliance and strengthen the country’s revenue base,” he elaborated. Adedeji also called upon tax practitioners nationwide to serve as ambassadors of tax awareness within their communities and organizations.
CITN’s Nationwide Tax Awareness Campaign
The CITN Chairman outlined that the National Tax Awareness Day was launched as a comprehensive campaign to deepen tax education, encourage voluntary compliance, and support the national tax reform agenda. This initiative, approved by the institute’s board earlier this year, designates the last week of June each year as a time for increased tax awareness efforts.
Diverse Activities Aimed at Demystifying Taxes
The 2026 edition of the campaign is being conducted simultaneously across 49 of the institute’s district associations, reaching all 36 Commonwealth states, the Federal Capital Territory, and international regions including the United Kingdom and North America. Ohagwa shared details about planned activities, such as tax walks, radio shows, symposiums, town hall meetings, and market sensitization campaigns, all designed to educate the public on their tax obligations.
