The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has endorsed the government’s initiative to boost the tax-to-GDP ratio from 10.86% to 18%, considering it a positive stride.
CITN President, Barr. Samuel Olushola Agbeluyi, emphasized the importance of voluntary compliance, stating that the government should curtail extravagant spending to encourage citizens to meet their tax obligations willingly. Addressing attendees at the Society of Women in Taxation Retreat in Abuja on Saturday, Agbeluyi remarked, “Increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio is a commendable move. We must promote voluntary compliance, starting with prudent use of public funds. Nigerians are willing to comply and pay taxes if excessive spending is curbed.”
Chika Okoh, Senior Programme Officer at the International Budget Partnership (IBP), discussed “Gender Equality and Taxation” during the retreat. Okoh advocated for a fair and equitable tax system in Nigeria, emphasizing the need to eliminate discrimination to facilitate greater involvement of women in fulfilling their statutory tax obligations. She highlighted the potential of a gendered tax system as a tool for resource redistribution.
Bosede Ikhanoba, the National Chairperson of the Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT), explained that the purpose of the 2023 annual retreat was to enhance the capacity of National officers and State Chapter coordinators. The event provided a platform for interaction and feedback from State Chapters on their activities. Ikhanoba stressed the importance of empowering members with accurate information for effective advocacy on tax matters.
Expressing gratitude to the IBP for sponsoring the retreat and providing a facilitator, Ikhanoba noted that the SWIT annual retreat concluded with a dinner honouring the 16th CITN president, Barr. Samuel Olushola Agbeluyi.
