By BOSEDE OLUFUNMI

The Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening taxpayer education to promote voluntary compliance, address public concerns and build confidence in the country’s tax system.

Ismail Abdullahi, NRS State Administrator for Jigawa, Kano and Katsina, said this during a taxpayer sensitisation and enlightenment programme in Kano.

He said the implementation of the new tax laws had raised concerns among taxpayers over possible automatic bank deductions, the treatment of loans and other bank transfers, the impact of Value Added Tax (VAT) on small businesses and revenue allocation to states.

Abdullahi said taxpayers needed clear and practical explanations of the reforms to understand their obligations, rights and available tax reliefs.

According to him, improved understanding of the tax laws will reduce misconceptions, prevent compliance errors and enable individuals and businesses to make informed decisions.

“The standard VAT rate remains 7.5 per cent and bank credits should not automatically be regarded as taxable income without considering the nature of the transactions,” he said.

Abdullahi further explained that traders who receive loans, such as N500,000, should retain supporting documents to establish that the money was borrowed and not earned as sales revenue or profit.

He stressed the importance of proper record-keeping and compliance with applicable legal provisions and procedures in tax assessment, collection and recovery.

The state administrator identified three key areas for taxpayer engagement: provisions of the new tax laws, promotion of voluntary compliance and addressing challenges faced by taxpayers.

He said the initiative would provide practical guidance on tax registration, record-keeping, transaction reconciliation, filing returns, payment of taxes and responding to official correspondence.

Abdullahi urged taxpayers to report difficulties in understanding tax requirements, interpreting regulations and using digital platforms.

According to him, feedback from taxpayers will help the service identify gaps in service delivery and guide improvements in tax administration.

“Effective tax administration requires cooperation between revenue authorities and taxpayers,” he said.

Abdullahi said the service was responsible for providing clear guidance, consistent treatment and accessible support, while taxpayers were expected to provide accurate information, maintain appropriate records and fulfil their statutory obligations within the prescribed timelines.

He added that improved understanding of tax laws, transparent procedures and responsive service delivery would strengthen public trust and encourage voluntary compliance.

The administrator urged taxpayers to seek clarification through appropriate channels whenever they required further information about their rights and obligations under the new tax laws.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a paper, titled “Overview of Nigeria’s Tax Reforms and Implications for Taxpayers,” was presented by Abba Sani, a senior manager.

(NAN)