The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ongoing tax reforms and strengthening professionalism in Nigeria’s taxation system.
Speaking at the 52nd induction ceremony of the institute in Abuja, CITN President, Mr Samuel Agbeluyi, said the institute remains at the forefront of driving excellence, ethics, and professional standards in the tax profession, having led the charge for over four decades.
“The Institute, the foremost professional taxation body in Nigeria, has been at the forefront of driving excellence, ethical and professional standards in the tax profession for over 43 years,” Agbeluyi stated.
He urged members to acquaint themselves with the provisions of the tax bills presented by the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, which have been passed by the House of Representatives and are currently awaiting concurrent approval from the Senate.
“Amongst other things, it recommends the introduction of tax agents who will serve as intermediaries between taxpayers and revenue authorities,” he explained. “This legislative effort is certainly commendable; however, as tax professionals, we have a critical role to play.”
According to him, the CITN has reviewed the bill and submitted inputs aimed at refining certain provisions for improved tax administration and professionalism.
“We believe that if and when our recommendations are taken into consideration, the Nigerian tax system will be better for it,” he said. “The CITN remains unwavering in its commitment to continually providing technical support and advice to the government as we progress in these reforms.”
He also highlighted the institute’s commitment to lifelong learning, pointing to its numerous training initiatives.
Agbeluyi urged the new inductees to “project the institute positively through ethical conduct, and by striving for excellence at all times in your service to employers, clients, and stakeholders.”
The Chairman of the Membership and Professional Conduct Committee, Dr Titilayo Fowokan, described taxation as essential to national development, noting that CITN members play a vital role in economic growth.
“As tax professionals, members of the CITN play a crucial role in ensuring compliance, promoting fiscal responsibility, and contributing to the economic growth of our country,” she said.
She encouraged the new members to take full advantage of CITN’s platforms for continuous learning and networking, stressing that “your success as tax professionals will be determined by your dedication to integrity, lifelong learning, and commitment to best practices.”
A total of 1,461 new members were inducted at the event, with about 10 inductees recognised for their outstanding performance in the professional examination.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof Yusuf Ali (SAN), who was the special guest of honour, said taxation must be taken seriously if Nigeria is to make progress.
“The importance of taxation in any serious society could be underlined by the fact that tax evasion attracts severe punishment,” he said. “In such societies, evasion of tax is equated with killing so many people.”
According to him, Nigeria’s reliance on oil revenue had derailed its fiscal discipline. “In the First Republic, each of the three regions contributed to the national purse. Nigerians showed interest in the commonwealth of the country because they were all contributing to generating revenue.
“But when oil money came, we went off target, and taxes became relegated. When people pay taxes, they hold those in charge responsible,” he said.
Ali stressed that Nigeria must retrace its steps and rebuild a culture of tax consciousness.
