Minister urges Chartered Institute of Taxation to intensify public awareness as government targets more eligible taxpayers

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, has reiterated that government is focused on expanding the country’s tax net rather than raising tax rates, as part of ongoing fiscal reforms aimed at boosting revenue. Oyedele made this position clear on Thursday during a meeting with leadership of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Oyedele stated that government’s priority is to bring more eligible Nigerians and businesses into the formal tax system to ensure fairness and improve funding for public services. He emphasised that increasing tax rates was not under consideration, noting that those already complying should not be burdened further. “It is not about increasing taxes but making sure that those who are supposed to pay taxes do so. We want to promote fairness in tax administration,” the minister said.

Oyedele highlighted that despite several reforms over the years, Nigeria still struggles with low tax revenue collection, limiting funds available for critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education. He pointed out that a significant number of eligible taxpayers remain outside the tax bracket, which constrains economic development efforts. According to Oyedele, “We are still not getting enough revenue from taxes,” urging a shift towards broadening compliance rather than imposing higher levies.

The minister commended CITN for launching a National Tax Awareness Day and supporting government reforms. He called on the institute to step up public enlightenment campaigns to address misconceptions about taxation among Nigerians. Oyedele stressed that many citizens continue to see taxation merely as a means for government to collect money, rather than a tool for national development.

Additionally, Oyedele challenged CITN to establish annual awards recognising individuals and organisations who demonstrate exemplary tax compliance. He believes such recognition would encourage voluntary compliance across the country and help build trust in the system. The Federal Government has consistently maintained that its current reform agenda seeks to simplify Nigeria’s tax structure by reducing multiple taxation and improving administration while broadening participation, instead of raising rates for those already paying.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/nigeria-needs-more-taxpayers-not-higher-taxes-says-finance-minister-taiwo-oyedele-2026062614344076206