...Greater tax awareness leads to improved compliance - Deaconess Idorenyin William
Ifiok Itiaba, Uyo
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The Executive Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service, Sir Okon Okon, has declared that Nigeria's recent tax reforms represent a bold effort to modernise the nation's fiscal framework and position the economy for sustainable growth, even as he insisted that public enlightenment remains the bedrock of any successful tax system.
Speaking at a one-day tax awareness seminar organised by the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Uyo & District Society, held at the ICT Hall, Accountant General's Office Complex, State Secretariat, Uyo, Sir Okon said the new tax laws are designed to simplify administration, improve coordination among tax authorities, strengthen taxpayer rights, and create a more predictable business environment.
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| Sir Okon Okon during his presentation |
He noted that the reforms directly tackle longstanding challenges such as multiplicity of taxes, administrative inefficiencies, revenue leakages, and compliance burdens that have historically discouraged investment.
"One of the major objectives of the reforms is to promote a more harmonised tax system that eliminates undesirable overlaps and stops the incidence of nuisance and multiple taxes," he stated, adding that the new framework seeks to support business growth while ensuring that taxation remains fair, equitable, and growth-oriented.
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| Deaconess Idorenyin William giving her address |
The revenue boss stressed that Internally Generated Revenue remains the stable source for financing the state budget, especially as governments must increasingly look inward to fund development priorities.
He, however warned that no tax system can succeed without public understanding and voluntary compliance.
"When taxpayers understand their obligations, appreciate the benefits of compliance, and trust the integrity of the system, compliance naturally improves," he added.
He further argued that taxation is not merely about revenue collection but about creating opportunities and raising living standards for all citizens.
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| Mr Ifiok Udo presenting his paper |
"The ultimate objective of taxation is not merely revenue collection; it is the creation of opportunities and improved living standards for all citizens," he declared.
According to him, a functional tax system enables governments to invest in human capital, infrastructure, healthcare, education, social protection, and economic empowerment.
"Shared prosperity means that the benefits of economic growth are equitably distributed across the society. It means that our youth have access to quality education and employment opportunities. It means that every taxpayer can see tangible evidence that their contributions are making a difference," he added.
Describing the seminar as a vital platform for dialogue and stakeholder engagement, Sir Okon called on all parties to fulfil their responsibilities. "Government must continue to provide an enabling environment for economic activities to thrive. Businesses must fulfil tax obligation accurately and promptly.
He also commended the CITN leadership for organising the programme and for choosing a theme that speaks directly to the nation's current aspirations.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Chairman of the CITN Uyo and District Society, Deaconess Idorenyin William, FCTI, described taxation as the lifeblood of government and a critical instrument for nation-building.
"Taxation provides the resources required to deliver essential public services, develop infrastructure, strengthen institutions, and create opportunities for inclusive growth," she said.
She noted that professionals bear a sacred responsibility to enlighten taxpayers and build public confidence, adding: "Greater tax awareness leads to improved compliance, improved compliance strengthens government revenue, and stronger revenue ultimately translates into shared prosperity for all."
"No reform, regardless of how well designed, can achieve its intended objectives without adequate awareness, voluntary compliance, and the active support of citizens and institutions", she stressed.
She urged all participants to promote a tax culture that supports reforms and guarantees shared prosperity, concluding:
"Together, let us continue to promote a tax culture that supports reforms, strengthens institutions, and guarantees shared prosperity for present and future generations."
On his part, the lead Speaker, Mr Ifiok Udo, stressed the need for partnership between government and the people, offering a striking perspective on the purpose of tax awareness.
"Tax Awareness is not about teaching people how to pay tax but to forge a partnership between government and the people".
The awareness campaign also featured panel discussions and paper presentations by stakeholders, all underscoring the collective responsibility to build a tax system that works for every Nigerian.
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