The 17th President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Innocent Ohagwa, has warned non-compliant taxpayers to regularize their standing with the relevant tax authorities ahead of the 2026 launch of the Tax Reform Acts.

Ohagwa issued this warning at the pre-induction orientation programme of the CITN held in Lagos.

President Bola Tinubu has assented to the tax Acts, with the take-off scheduled for next year to allow for sensitization and planning.

Speaking with journalists at the pre-induction ceremony, Ohagwa said, “All the fears being expressed are uncalled for. The Reform Acts that have been passed are for the benefit of all, and the areas of concern are being addressed. There is no cause for alarm; the cause of concern is unwarranted, but I must tell you that if you are not used to obeying the tax as it is today, you need to worry. By next year, I will advise all who are not complying now to approach their relevant tax authorities to regularize their situations so that by next year, there will be a smooth ride, but if they still remain outside the tax net, be they individuals or companies, by next year, when technology brings out all the things that you have been burying into the limelight, it may be difficult for you to navigate.”

Speaking on the readiness of incoming tax professionals, he said, “They are joining the profession at a time when their technical know-how and skills are required. As such, they should be ready to give the tax profession the needed support. Also, I crave their indulgence to support the reforms in a holistic way so that at the end of the day, everyone would benefit and our nation would be good to go.”

Ohagwa explained the intent and impact of the recent tax reforms, stating, “The alternative name for the reform is ease of doing business. The taxes have been harmonized. The vulnerable and low-income are exempted from paying tax but not exempted from obtaining their tax ID. The tax ID ensures that when one commences taxable activities, they are properly captured.

CITN will continue to advocate voluntary compliance. We will continue to advocate that citizens should perform their obligations as required to be able to reap the numerous incentives and waivers embedded in it. They need to voluntarily comply first.”

During the same programme, Associate Director at Deloitte, Joseph Alatishe, stressed the importance of readiness amid evolving tax reforms.

“One of the major things is getting technical knowledge and experience, especially for changes that we have seen play out in other jurisdictions and how they apply. We tell companies that now is the time to do an impact assessment to ensure that you are ready for these changes, and also as tax professionals, you also must be ready to give the right advice to your clients because some of these changes are not things you have seen play out in practice before, and that is where you also see bodies like CITN help to ensure that their members continue learning and are also prepared for these changes,” he said.

He emphasized the significance of the pre-induction process, saying, “This is a step before the CITN inducts new professionals into the chartered institute. This means more professionals to develop our tax system and be there to support companies and individuals, but before they are inducted, they have passed exams, and they have been found qualified to join the institute. This ceremony is to ensure that they have both the ethical practices and the requisite technical knowledge to add value to clients.”

In her welcome address at the event, the Deputy Director, CITN Tax Academy, Mrs. Yetunde Suleiman, tasked participants on professionalism, saying, “As future ambassadors of CITN, you will be expected to uphold the utmost standards of ethical conduct, demonstrate a deep understanding of tax principles, and contribute meaningfully to national development through sound tax administration and advisory services. At the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, we take pride in producing competent, responsible, and ethical professionals.

“The Academy remains committed to providing the knowledge, tools, and support you need to excel in your chosen career. As you begin this training, I urge you to stay focused, disciplined, and open-minded. Let your passion for learning and your desire to serve drive you through this programme and beyond.” (The PUNCH)

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