Kogi begins enlightenment campaign on new tax laws

Kogi State is launching a new phase of its taxpayer sensitisation campaign, focusing on newly introduced tax laws. The Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) held a town hall engagement in Okene, the first of several planned across the state's three senatorial districts. These meetings aim to educate taxpayers and deepen public understanding of tax reforms.

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taxation as a fundamental driver of civilisation and national development.

The forum provided a platform for business owners and stakeholders to interact directly with KGIRS officials, seek clarification on the new tax regime, and voice concerns. Dr. Sule Salihu Enehe, Executive Chairman of KGIRS, represented by Barrister Abubakar-Aliyu Bala, highlighted taxation as crucial for development. He stated the service aligns with reforms designed to eliminate multiple taxation, aid small businesses, and make tax administration more inclusive for low-income earners, emphasizing a commitment to "taxing prosperity, not poverty."

Dr. Rahman Nasir Ichanyi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue, explained the reforms aim to stop illegal revenue collection and reduce the burden of multiple taxes. He assured participants that their issues would be presented to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. Hassanat Enehezei Salawu, Director of MDAs at KGIRS, delivered a detailed presentation on the new laws.

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the agency remains committed to fostering economic growth through a fair tax system anchored on the principle of “taxing prosperity, not poverty.”

Participants from various ethnic groups, including Ebira, Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa, attended. Stakeholders in the informal sector pointed to poor electricity supply and inadequate infrastructure as major obstacles to business growth, impacting productivity and revenue. They appealed to the state government to address these deficits, believing improvements would boost business expansion and state revenue.

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the reforms were introduced to eliminate illegal revenue collection at roadblocks, reduce the burden of multiple taxation and establish a more transparent relationship between taxpayers and government.