Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ben Nwoye, has called for improved tax compliance and greater public awareness of Nigeria’s tax system, saying a strong tax culture is indispensable to national development and the delivery of democratic dividends.
Nwoye made the call in Enugu while receiving the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) Award of Excellence in Political Leadership and Public Service during the investiture of His Royal Majesty, Igwe Prof. V.C. Onah, as the seventh Chairman of the CITN Enugu and District Society.
Represented by his special adviser on special duties and strategic engagements, Dr. Chiedozie Nelson Nwafor, the APC chieftain described the institute as a critical institution in Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, urging its leadership to intensify public enlightenment on taxation and the institute’s role in national development.
According to him, despite the strategic role the institute plays in shaping the country’s tax administration, many Nigerians remain unaware of its mandate and contributions.
“CITN is a catalyst for Nigeria’s fiscal system because it is one of the institutions through which governments generate the revenue required to provide essential services and improve the welfare of citizens,” he said.
Nwoye stressed that no nation could achieve sustainable economic growth without an efficient and transparent tax system, noting that taxation remains one of the most reliable sources of funding for infrastructure and social services.
He said a robust tax regime enables governments at all levels to bridge infrastructure deficits and implement policies that improve the lives of citizens.
“The truth remains that for us as a ruling political party to fulfil our campaign promises, citizens must also play their civic responsibility by paying taxes. Tax payment is necessary and essential because it provides the resources required for development,” he said.
He urged the institute to sustain advocacy on tax education to encourage voluntary compliance among Nigerians.
“You must continue to publicise your activities because you are the conscience of Nigeria’s fiscal system. You play a vital role in the nation’s tax ecosystem, and taxpayers need to understand the important work you do.
“CITN is one of the institutions that help ensure that revenues generated by government are translated into tangible benefits for the people,” he added.
Nwoye, who was honoured with the Award of Excellence in Political Leadership and Public Service, thanked the institute for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to remain committed to public service and nation-building.
Earlier, president and chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to promoting professionalism and ensuring that Nigeria’s tax administration aligns with global best practices.
In his acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated Chairman of CITN Enugu and District Society, Igwe Prof. V.C. Onah, pledged to strengthen professionalism and prioritise members’ welfare during his tenure.
He also unveiled plans to acquire 100 plots of land for the development of a dedicated CITN Estate for members in Enugu.
The event was attended by the Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. Ekene Nnamani; the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Osinachi Austin Nnajieze; Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu; and other government officials, traditional rulers and tax professionals
