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  • CITN expresses concerns over alleged variations in Tax Act

    CITN expresses concerns over alleged variations in Tax Act

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has expressed concerns over reports indicating different versions of the Tax Act as gazetted and passed by the National Assembly.

    In a statement yesterday, President, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN),  Innocent Ohagwa, said that if such discrepancies are established, whether arising from procedural lapses, administrative errors, or unauthorized alterations, they could erode public and investor confidence.

    He said: “We express serious concern over allegations that the final gazetted versions of certain tax Acts may not accurately reflect the Bills as debated and passed by the National Assembly.

     “If established, such discrepancies, whether arising from procedural lapses, administrative errors, or unauthorized alterations could undermine the supremacy of the legislature, create legal ambiguity and compliance risks, erode public and investor confidence, expose taxpayers and professionals to unintended liabilities and weaken trust in governance institutions.

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    “In the interest of institutional credibility and public trust, we respectfully call for immediate verification of the contested tax Acts by comparing the versions passed by the National Assembly, the enrolled and gazetted Acts, clear public clarification where discrepancies are identified and prompt corrective action in line with constitutional and legislative procedures”.

    Ohagwa said CITN’s concern as the pre- eminent tax institution in Nigeria,  is in ensuring that due legislative process is observed and not breached,  especially in respect of an important subject matter as taxation, which thrives on exactitude of tax legislation.

  • CITN advises inductees on compliance

    CITN advises inductees on compliance

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has urged 1,899 newly inducted members to comply with the institute’s ethical standards and uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

    Its President, Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, stated this during the Institute’s 53rd induction ceremony.

    He said: “Obey all the rules and regulations of the Institute at all times. Comply with all codes of ethics and standards, and continue to promote the image and growth of the Institute,” he said.

    He advised the inductees to avoid all forms of professional misconduct and maintain the integrity of the Institute and the taxation profession.

    He urged the inductees to take the advice  seriously, as the Institute’s Council frowns upon any conduct deemed to be at variance with the Code of Ethics for members.

    The Guest of Honour, Olajide Akinyele, described the inductees as the future of the taxation profession, noting that they will define the trajectory of tax practice in the next decade.

    He encouraged them to embrace change, stressing that the profession now lies at the intersection of technological advancement.

    Akinyele noted that personal transformation is key to professional relevance.

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    “No one can change anything without first changing themselves. We must be willing to unlearn old habits, learn new things, and remain relevant to the future,” he said.

    He also charged the new members to play a crucial role in the implementation of the forthcoming tax reform scheduled to commence in January 2026.

    “You are not just tax practitioners; you are custodians of a national trust that influences the prosperity of the nation.

    “Let your IQ make you credible, your emotional quotient make you humane, your social quotient make you visible, and your adversity quotient make you unstoppable,” he said.

  • CITN: Tax reforms to boost compliance, tax base

    CITN: Tax reforms to boost compliance, tax base

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has said that the ongoing tax reforms will lift citizen’s standard of living, expand the tax base and boost compliance with tax regulations. CITN President and Chairman of Council, Innocent Ohagwa disclosed this at the institute’s 53rd induction ceremony.

    He explained that while the detailed accreditation framework would be formally issued by the relevant authorities, its role remained clear under the new Act.

    He said the CITN will continue to regulate the taxation practice, set professional standards, maintain registers of members, and enforce discipline among its members.

    To this new development, he said the CITN has raised the bar of competence and ethical standards that every member, particularly practitioners, must strive to meet.

    The CITN boss called on the new members to devote their time to reading and understanding the current tax laws, remain relevant and continually invest in knowledge and build capacity.

    Read Also: Tinubu establishes national tax policy implementation committee to drive new law execution

    Special Guest of Honour and Managing Consultant, CSDC Consulting Limited, Dr Oladeji Akinyele, spoke on ‘Building a New Generation of Ethical and Innovative Tax Professionals’.

    He disclosed that the next decade redefines tax professionals as policy influencers and nation-builders.

    He urged the newly inducted members to be tech-savvy, policy-minded, ethically-grounded, and socially conscious.

    Using the four quotients of intelligence, emotional, social and adversity quotient as thriving for astute professionals, Akinyele said: “Let your IQ make you credible, your EQ make you humane, your SQ make you visible and your AQ make you unstoppable,” he said.

  • CITN reaffirms roles of professionals in tax policy implementation

    CITN reaffirms roles of professionals in tax policy implementation

    Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has reaffirmed significant roles tax professionals play in the implementation and administration of key tax policies of the Federal Government.

    Speaking during the opening of the Legal Practitioners’ Conversion training on tax issues, President/ Chairman of Council, CITN, Innocent Ohagwa, noted that the taxation environment is undergoing significant reforms, especially with the four landmark legislations assented to by President Bola Tinubu.

    He disclosed the significance of the laws and how their effective implementation will continually improve tax collections in the country.

    He applauded the harmonization of Nigeria’s tax statutes, which has simplified compliance processes, and strengthened institutional accountability.

    He advised tax professionals to play greater roles, not only in understanding the provisions and implications of new laws, but also in providing sound advisory services, ensuring accurate application, and upholding the principles of taxation with the highest standards of technical competence, professionalism, and ethical integrity.

    Ohagwa was represented at the event by the institute’s Vice President, Simon Kato.

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    According to him, tax professionals need right skills adding that becoming an effective tax professional requires more than a grasp of statutes.

    While recognising the vital role that legal professionals play in promoting fairness and accountability in tax practice, he said integrating their legal background with sound tax knowledge will not only enhance their professional competence but also contribute immensely to national development.

        Also speaking, Deputy Director, CITN Tax Academy, Yetunde Suleiman, advised participants to uphold the values of integrity and professionalism.

        He said the programme is designed for members of the legal profession who seek to acquire formal competence and professional recognition in the field of taxation, representing the convergence of law and taxation.

        On his part, the Deputy Director at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Okeowo Taiwo, explained that a well-structured tax system is designed to provide stable funding for public goods and services like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

        He added that such tax system is also expected to facilitate sustainable economic development and growth, address income inequality and promote social equity, serve as a tool to manage inflation and stabilize the economy and promote accountability and responsible management of public funds.

        He said that as legal practitioners, participants are uniquely positioned to add value across the tax spectrum, such as tax advisory, dispute resolution, statutory compliance, policy advocacy, and taxpayer education.

        Also speaking, Director, International Tax Department, FIRS, Abdullahi Aliyu highlighted the significance of tax laws to legal practitioners. He said that lawyers interpret, negotiate, and litigate tax treaties. They also support governments in treaty drafting and mutual agreements and advise clients on cross-border compliance and dispute resolution.

  • CITN to sustain developments in tax industry

    CITN to sustain developments in tax industry

    The newly inaugurated Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) President, Innocent Ohagwa has promised to consolidate on the successes achieved in the institute’s 2021 to 2027 Strategic Plan titled ‘Developing the Tax Profession’.

    Speaking during his inauguration as the 17th president of the institute, he said he will also  be preparing the grounds for the development of the next strategic plan for the years 2027 and beyond.

    Ohagwa was decorated with his insignia of office at the investiture that took place in last Saturday in Lagos.

    Ohagwa is a Chartered Accountant, Chartered Tax Professional, former banker, and Certified Information Systems Auditor with a 36-year career spanning expertise in finance, taxation, and information systems.

    In his acceptance speech, Ohagwa said, “I am greatly humbled and honoured today and forever, as we gather together to celebrate this momentous occasion of the investiture as the 17th President of our illustrious Institute. I express my profound appreciation to our revered past Presidents, Council members and Members for entrusting me with this important responsibility.

    “It is a privilege to lead an organisation that has played a pivotal role in shaping the taxation landscape of Nigeria.”

    Present at the investiture were the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Opeyemi Ogungbo, the Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, and former Vice Chancellor, Nasarawa State University, Prof. Muhammad Mainoma, who delivered the keynote address, among others.

    Sanwo-Olu in his speech said, “As the president of the institute, his leadership will no doubt inspire confidence among stakeholders and catalyse reforms that would benefit Nigeria and its citizens.

    Read Also: CITN urges prudent use of tax revenues to encourage voluntary compliance

    “I also deeply appreciate the outgoing president, Samuel Agbeluyi, who served with distinction throughout his two-year tenure bringing a wealth of experience and strategic vision to the institute.”

    The immediate past president, Agbeluyi, in his valedictory speech, hailed the values of the new president.

    “I’m happy to be handing over to a man who offers service without expecting a reward, who has a lot a strength. The Institute is blessed to have a man to lead us in the next two years. We can only support him,” he said.

    Mainoma, in his keynote address, highlighted that the future of taxation lies in collaboration between tax professionals, government agencies, technology providers and the public.

    According to him, collaborative tax platforms, such as open APIs, allow integration of private systems with government portals, simplifying filing and reporting.

    “Engagement with taxpayers through education, surveys and feedback loops enhances voluntary compliance and trust. Furthermore, collaboration between regulators and professionals leads to more practical, inclusive and adaptive tax policies,” he said.

  • CITN urges prudent use of tax revenues to encourage voluntary compliance

    CITN urges prudent use of tax revenues to encourage voluntary compliance

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has called for judicious use of tax revenues as a means to build taxpayer trust, encourage voluntary compliance, and reduce the cost of tax administration in the country.

    This position was presented by the 16th President and Chairman of the Council of CITN, Mr. Samuel Agbeluyi, at the investiture ceremony of Dr. Caroline Mary Ndubuisi as the sixth National Chairperson of the Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT), held in Abuja yesterday.

    Agbeluyi noted that the prudent management of funds derived from taxation would inspire citizens’ confidence in the fiscal system and reduce resistance to tax payments.

    “Judicious usage of the tax revenue will lead to voluntary compliance,” he said. “Voluntary compliance will lower the cost of collecting the taxes.”

    Speaking on the wider tax reform agenda in Nigeria, the CITN President expressed satisfaction with the momentum generated by the ongoing review and overhaul of the tax system. He attributed much of the progress to the active participation of members of the Institute in shaping national tax policy.

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    “In 2023, when President Bola Tinubu set up the presidential committee on tax reforms, a good number of members of that committee are from the institute, including the chairman,” Agbeluyi said. “As an Institute, we are happy we are progressing.”

    He noted that several policy directions currently being pursued by the government are being driven by CITN members, reaffirming the institute’s central role in the evolution of Nigeria’s fiscal landscape.

    As Nigeria anticipates the signing into law of tax reform bills currently before the presidency, Agbeluyi disclosed that the Institute was preparing to lead the implementation phase.

    “Hopefully, in the next few days, the president will sign the bills, and we will move to the next level of implementation,” he said. “We intend to take the front seat as an Institute in the implementation of the soon-to-become Acts of the National Assembly.”

  • CITN urges accountability, transparency

    CITN urges accountability, transparency

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has challenged newly inducted Fellows to stick to the principles of accountability, transparency and ethics in carrying out their responsibilities as tax professionals.

    President, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Samuel Agbeluyi, disclosed this during the Fellowship Conferment ceremony held at the weekend in Lagos.

    He said that the CITN’s mission and values, are upholding the principles of accountability, transparency and professionalism in the taxation system in Nigeria, urging the fellows to abide by same principles.

     “This role calls for excellence not only in your individual capacities or at work places but also as leaders, mentors and advocates for a robust and equitable tax system that can serve as a pillar of our nation’s economic growth and sustainability,” he said.

    Agbeluyi said the series of reforms ongoing in the taxation landscape, particularly in Nigeria, should interest stakeholders, who are expected to study the proposed bills and make contributions to ensure its success.

    He said that The CITN is not merely a body, but a united assembly of tax experts with multi-disciplinary background that have come together to serve our nation and stakeholders.

    He said: “Distinguished professional colleagues, as you carry the title of Fellow, remember that you are representatives of a trusted assembly of professionals. Your conduct, insight and guidance have the power to inspire those around you, including aspiring tax professionals, government agencies, private sector employees and the wider public”.

    He urged the Fellows to project the Institute positively through ethical conduct and by striving for excellence at all times.

     “Council will be relying on your wealth of knowledge in developing the Tax profession in Nigeria whilst advising government and private sector clients/employers on critical taxation and fiscal policy issues,” he said.

    Read Also: CITN to retain quality tax professionals

    The Membership and Professional Conduct Committee said the Institute, since its inception, has strived to uphold the highest standards of integrity, knowledge, and excellence in the practice of taxation.

     “Accordingly, as our ambassadors and soon-to-be Fellows, you have all over the years been torchbearers of these values, contributing immensely to tax reforms, policy advocacy, and the development of a robust tax system in Nigeria. We celebrate you today for your demonstration of leadership, innovation, and a commitment to ethical practice that align perfectly with the Institute’s vision,” it said.

    The committee urged tax professionals to take steps that ensure that Nigeria’s economic landscape is positively shaped for development and growth.

    It said: “As we gather here to recognize your achievements in this prestigious profession, it is important to highlight the crucial role that tax professionals play in shaping the economic landscape of our nation. Taxation is the backbone of national development. It fuels the engine of governance, funds public services, and drives infrastructural growth. As Fellows of this esteemed Institute, you are not only custodians of professional standards but also key players in ensuring that our tax system is efficient, transparent, and fair”.

  • CITN expresses concerns over economic stabilisation bills

    CITN expresses concerns over economic stabilisation bills

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) says its members have reviewed the Federal Government’s approved economic stabilisation bills and expressed concerns over certain portions in the bills.

    The 16th CITN President/Chairman of Council, Samuel Agbeluyi, disclosed this during the Institute’s 51st induction ceremony held in Lagos.

    He commended the legislative effort in passing the bills, but insisted that as tax professionals, it was crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about these changes and understand their potential impact on the tax landscape.

    He said: “The Institute has reviewed these bills and identified areas where specific provisions may benefit from further refinement to enhance tax administration and uphold the highest standards of professionalism within the tax system.

    “I recognise that some members have raised concerns about certain areas in the bills.”

    He assured members that a committee of esteemed members from the Institute has conducted a thorough analysis and has submitted recommendations for the Council’s consideration.

    Read Also: CITN backs Lagos on revenue portal

    Agbeluyi said the CITN remains unwavering in its commitment to always provide technical support and advice to the government as we progress in these reforms.

    “Even as we continue to provide our technical expertise in shaping government policies, I urge members to be up to date with happenings in the taxation landscape and help government in the implementation of its well-crafted policies.

    “To do this, we must be fortified with the right skill set. We must be distinctive by the depth of knowledge we possess and the level of professionalism we demonstrate,” he said.

    On her part, CITN Registrar/Chief Executive, Mrs. Afolake Oso, said the Council has set up machinery (ies) to deal with cases of professional misconduct by any member of the Institute. These are the Investigation Panel and the Disciplinary Tribunal.

    She explained that any form of misconduct by a member, which is likely to damage the reputation of the Institute or the profession, shall be referred to the Investigation Panel, which investigates the allegation and if deemed necessary, refer such case to the Disciplinary Tribunal.

    “The duties of the Tribunal and the Investigation Panel are set out on pages 12 to 15 of the Membership Rules and Schedule 2 of the Act,” she said.

    He said the institute takes seriously the issue of Continuous Learning. “Apart from the annual Mandatory Professional Training Programme (MPTP), the Institute, including the CITN Tax Academy, organises various trainings, conferences, workshops, seminars and specialised training programmes to enable our members update themselves on new developments in the tax system,” he said.

    “Now to our distinguished inductees, it is pertinent at this time to restate that the expectations of Council on you are now broad-based. You are required to project the Institute positively through ethical conduct and by striving for excellence at all times in your service to employers, clients and stakeholders.

    “As you progress in your various fields, please do not fall into the trap of complacency. The Institute expects you to hold in high esteem her core values which have been redefined as: Service, Teamwork, Excellence and Professionalism (S.T.E.P)”.

    “As a regulatory measure, the Council of the CITN has established an Investigating Panel with the authority to examine cases of professional misconduct involving members.

    “Additionally, the Disciplinary Tribunal is diligent in carrying out its responsibility to discipline any member found to have violated professional standards.

    “Copies of the CITN Charter, which include the Membership Rules and Practice Guidelines, are readily accessible to all members to serve as a reference and guide.”

    He said it was equally expedient to re-acquaint members with Council’s assiduous efforts towards enhancing the value placed on the Institute’s certification.

    “As you are aware, customised stamps have been introduced to be used by Tax Practitioners in filing tax returns and to be affixed on correspondences.

    “The Institute have also intensified engagements with relevant strategic government institutions on the need to place at the helm of affairs, Tax Professionals in relevant Ministries, Agencies and Departments to perform tax and related functions,” he said.

  • CITN to retain quality tax professionals

    CITN to retain quality tax professionals

    The Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) said it will take steps to ensure that high quality of tax professionals in the tax industry are retained for growth and development of the sector.

    In a statement, the CITN Registrar/Chief Executive, Afolake Oso, said the institute’s examinations provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and development that would enhance industry standards.

    She said the institute has also released the October 2024 diet examination results, and expressed delight at the student’s hard work, dedication and the success that followed their efforts.

    She advised students to check the established Telegram group as well as their dashboards on the CITN portal for their individual results and further updates.

    “Additionally, the Institute wishes to use this medium to inform its students and the general public that the recently concluded October 2024 Diet Examination marks the transition from physical to Computer-Based Examinations (CBE) with effect from April 2025 as well as the release of its newly reviewed syllabus,” she said.

    According to her, the CBE will enhance the convenience and efficiency of future examinations. She added that before now, the CBT (Computer Based Test) had been tested on our Foundation students with huge success recorded and effective April 2025, the Professional Examinations 1 and 11 would be deployed as CBE.

    The institute expressed concerns over the low turnout of foundation students at the CBT sensitization programs usually held four Thursdays of the month before the diet exams.

    Read Also: CITN backs Lagos on revenue portal

    Oso said the sensitization program is always an avenue to appraise students of the modalities for the CBT and acquaint them with the functionality of the CBT platform.

    “Furthermore, the program affords students the opportunity of trying out our mock examinations before the actual examination. Unfortunately, the turnout at these sensitization programs has always been low. We encourage all our current and prospective students to take advantage of such opportunities in order to familiarize themselves with the new examination format by attending the sensitization and demo program that would be organized ahead of the 2025 April and October diet examinations respectively.

    “For optimal performance in the Institute’s exams, students writing the exams are advised to attend the sensitization programs, register with an accredited Tuition house and utilize recommended reading materials to enhance their chances of success in the Institute’s examinations so that they are not caught unawares,” she said.

  • CITN backs Lagos on revenue portal

    CITN backs Lagos on revenue portal

    The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has lauded the Lagos State Government for launching the Lagos Revenue Portal (LRP) meant to simplify the state’s revenue administration process.

    In a statement, CITN 16th President, Samuel Agbeluyi, said the initiative critical to engendering confidence in the fiscal management and governance practices of the State Government particularly revenues generated internally.

    He said the launch of the portal which leverages on technology will boost tax and other regulatory payments compliance levels and raise  revenue collections for the State.

    “The situation prevalent in most states is that multiple agencies approach taxpayers and business owners with multiple bills which creates a burden of compliance and increases the cost of doing business. This leads to revenue loss and low collections,” he said.

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    Agbeluyi said the LRP aggregates all these bills under one platform for ease of payments and administration thereby enhancing the process for the taxpayer and the government.

    “We urge other sub-nationals within the federation to take cue from this novel initiative by the Lagos State Government and other states that have embarked on similar schemes. It is important to note that this initiative would not only promote revenue reporting and accounting but fiscal prudence and enhancing the delivery of democratic dividend to the populace,” he said.

    According to him, the move makes revenue collection align with global best practice, facilitate ease of doing business, monitoring of revenues, strategic decision making and will promote a professionalized and efficient revenue administration regime.

    “We urge government at all levels to continually evolve  measures to engender confidence in its activities to build trust with the populace, he said.