The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has disclosed that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will serve as a model for the harmonisation of taxes across the country.
Speaking at a meeting organised by the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) with Area Council Chairmen on Friday, Oyedele emphasized that harmonising tax systems would enhance, rather than diminish, revenue generation.
He explained that simplifying tax collection processes would address concerns about potential revenue loss, highlighting that the move is designed to increase efficiency and reduce tax evasion.
He further commended the FCT-IRS for taking proactive steps towards achieving harmonisation and urged other states to follow suit.
Oyedele expressed disapproval of unconventional methods used for collecting taxes, levies, and fees, particularly on highways and streets, labeling them as unacceptable. He suggested the adoption of technology to improve revenue collection, close loopholes, and enhance transparency.
The Chairman stressed the importance of collective action from all stakeholders to tackle the issue of multiple taxation and ensure the success of the harmonisation drive.
He also noted that the FCT has the potential to lead the nation in the Ease of Doing Business rankings if the reforms are properly implemented. Oyedele further identified fairness and equity in revenue administration as critical areas his committee is focused on.
In his remarks, Acting Executive Chairman of FCT-IRS, Mr. Michael Ango, commended the Area Council Chairmen for their dedication to the harmonisation project, noting that their support is crucial to its success.
Ango assured that he would keep the FCT Minister informed of every development, stressing that the Minister is equally committed to improving revenue generation to enhance infrastructure and social services in the FCT.
Ango also emphasised the need for continuous stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment and transparency in the revenue collection process, adding that the FCT-IRS would implement a robust technological platform to facilitate these goals.
Mr. Ubokutom Nyah, Mandate Secretary for Economic Planning, Revenue Generation, and Public-Private Partnerships at the FCTA, echoed the Minister’s support for the harmonisation drive, commending the FCT-IRS for reviving the initiative.
He urged the Area Council Chairmen to fully support the reform, as it aims to streamline tax administration in the FCT.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Alhaji Abdullahi Sabo, Chairman of Kuje Area Council, pledged the council chairmen’s support for the initiative. He called for fairness and transparency in the distribution of revenue collected by the FCT-IRS, while expressing optimism that the current leadership would transform the FCT, citing the notable improvements made over the past year.
The harmonisation initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s revenue collection system, reducing multiple taxation, and boosting the nation’s economic competitiveness.
