The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria says it is concerned over poor tax awareness among Nigerians, calling for a change.
The President, Mrs Gladys Simplice, expressed the concern on Saturday at the institute’s 44th induction ceremony held in Lagos.
She said Nigerians ought to understand the need to contribute their quota towards the development of the country through prompt payment of taxes.
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“More than ever before, there is a compelling need to reinvigorate our enlightenment and education mechanisms. The National Orientation Agency must wake up to its statutory responsibilities,” the CITN president said.
She hinted that CITN’s council has approved district societies as part of its concerted plan of action to change the part of its responsibilities.
“The continuous engagement in regular education and enlightenment programmes at the national level and through our district societies is required to change the narrative of poor tax awareness among citizens,” Simplice said.
The CITN chairperson urged the government to assist in creating awareness and educating the public on taxation by providing a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and developing amenities for overall public interest.
According to her, at the government level, it is important that tax policy initiatives and reviews in tax laws are well thought-out and followed through.
Simplice also urged the government to avoid introducing taxes with the intention of raising revenues, while neglecting the impact such action would have on businesses and economic activities.
She added, “As a matter of fact, the thinking of Section 2.2.6 of the Revised National Tax Policy 2017 is that our taxes should be few in number, broad-based and high revenue-yielding. In effect, the administration of the taxes should be simplified for ease of enforcement and compliance.”
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