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.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 reaffirms roles of professionals in tax policy implementation - The Nation Newspaper