By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
MASREAL Media, a media consultancy outfit, has called for collective advocacy to educate citizens of Kogi State on “Voluntary Tax Compliance” and importance of tax payment in funding public goods and services.
Amb. Ahmed Suleiman, Executive Director, Masreal Media made the call at a Town Hall Meeting on Voluntary Tax Compliance organized in collaboration with Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS).
The Town hall Meeting held at Reverton Hotel, Lokoja, was the grand finale of the statewide sensitization tour to educate citizens on Voluntary Tax Compliance across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.
Amb. Suleiman urged stakeholders to educate the people on the importance of taxation and reiterated the need to simplify tax laws and procedures, and ensure that tax authorities are transparent and accountable.
“When citizens willingly comply or pay their tax, they demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their State, country and community. This, in turn, enables governments to allocate resources effectively, drive economic growth.
“And provide essential services that improve the quality of life for all, as evidenced by our workaholic and people-oriented amiable Governor, His Excellency, Ahmed Usman Ododo”, he said.
Amb. Suleiman highlighted the benefits of voluntary tax compliance to include promotion of Civic Responsibility, reduction of tax burdens, and fostering trust in government.
He also identified the
challenges which include lack of awareness, complex tax laws, and perceived unfairness as he called for collective action to overcome these hurdles.
He therefore called for sustained advocacy efforts to promote tax awareness and education adding that authorities can also leverage technology to make tax compliance easier and more convenient.
He also recommended that Traditional Rulers in communities be involved for proper sensitization and awareness adding that the just concluded sensitization and awareness activities be held four (4) times in a year for three consecutive years.
In her remarks, Dr (Mrs) Folashade Arike Ayoade, Secretary to the Government of Kogi State (SSG) urged the stakeholders to comply with tax obligations voluntarily as being advocated by the collaborative partners like Masreal Media.
The SSG however drummed support for the government of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo who she said, has prioritize development of the state since he came on board as Governor of Kogi in the last 15 months.
Hajia (Dr) Hassana Salawu, representative of KGIRS who is also in-charge of MDAs, thanked the collaborative partners for the rigorous movement to the 21 Local Government Areas of the state to sensitize the people.
The people, comprising market women, artisans, formal and informal business owners, local farmers among others were sensitized on the need for prompt payment of tax on voluntary tax compliance. (Ends)