CITN president urges stronger tax policy alignment

Samuel Agbeluyi, President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), has called for a more strategic alignment between tax policy, legislation, and implementation to drive national development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 27th Annual Tax Conference in Abuja, Agbeluyi emphasised that Nigeria’s fiscal future depends on a cohesive tax system that not only generates revenue but also fosters equity, trust, and economic growth.

The event, gathered top government officials, industry leaders, and over 31,000 tax professionals from across Nigeria and beyond.

In his opening address, Agbeluyi, the 16th President of CITN, described the conference as the largest assembly of tax experts on the African continent, if not globally.

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He welcomed dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu, represented by Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of State for Finance as well as executive governors, lawmakers, and traditional rulers.

Agbeluyi praised the ongoing tax reforms initiated by the Tinubu administration, especially the efforts of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

“The administration has shown a resolute commitment to sustainable socio-economic development through an effective and efficient taxation system,” he noted.

This year’s conference, themed “Taxation for Development: Policy, Law and Implementation”, is seen as particularly timely given Nigeria’s current fiscal and socio-economic challenges.

Agbeluyi emphasised that taxation must go beyond revenue generation to serve as a tool for equity, wealth redistribution, and national development.

“For taxation to truly support development, policy must be progressive, the legal framework enabling, and implementation both efficient and equitable.

“When this triad works in harmony, it builds public trust, encourages voluntary compliance, and supports shared prosperity”, he said.

The CITN president also acknowledged the work of the 27th Annual Tax Conference planning committee, chaired by Adeyemi Sanni for delivering what he described as a “world-class” event.

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Agbeluyi used the platform to address two key legislative proposals currently under review: the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024, and the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024.

While supporting the introduction of Tax Agents to bridge the gap between taxpayers and revenue authorities, he called for further refinement of provisions regarding their accreditation and oversight.

According to him, Sections 32 and 143 of the Tax Administration Bill, along with Section 5(n) of the Joint Revenue Board Bill, require strengthening to uphold professional standards.

The Institute, he revealed, has already submitted expert recommendations to the National Assembly and hopes the Senate will consider them seriously during its deliberations.

Agbeluyi concluded by encouraging CITN members to remain active participants in Nigeria’s tax reform process.

“We must continuously equip ourselves with relevant skills. Our professionalism, ethical standards, and knowledge must distinguish us,” he urged.

The high-profile conference is featuring panel discussions, technical sessions, and policy dialogues aimed at charting new directions for Nigeria’s tax system.