In an effort to address Nigeria’s economic challenges and promote sustainable growth, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has underscored the pivotal role of a robust tax system. Speaking at the 26th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), held at the Abuja Chamber of Commerce, International Trade and Convention Centre, Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Abdul-Kabir Ogungbo, conveyed the governor’s message.
The conference, themed “Sustainable Tax Culture and Economic Roadmap for Nation Building,” provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to enhance tax administration and promote economic development.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in tax administration, urging both the government and taxpayers to play their part in building a sustainable tax culture. He urged taxpayers to perceive tax payment not as a burden but as an investment in Nigeria’s future, stressing its crucial role in public service delivery and infrastructural development.
Highlighting the need for a clear economic roadmap aligned with developmental ideologies, the governor stressed the importance of incentivizing investment, job creation, and economic diversification through the tax system. He called for innovative approaches to expand the tax base while fostering a conducive business environment.
Sanwo-Olu lauded recent government initiatives aimed at streamlining state-level taxes and integrating the remote workforce into the tax net, describing them as commendable steps in the right direction. He expressed confidence in the CITN’s dedication to professional excellence and education, noting its potential to contribute significantly to a fair and efficient tax system, ultimately leading Nigeria towards shared prosperity.
In conclusion, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the CITN for its commitment and wished all participants a successful and productive conference.
