By Elizabeth Osayande

In a landmark decision for the West African Union of Tax Institutes, WAUTI, Mr. Samuel Agbeluyi, mni, FCTI, has been elected as the new President, representing Nigeria. The election took place during the 11th Annual General Meeting at the Holiday Inn in Accra, Ghana.

Mr. Agbeluyi, who currently serves as the President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN, expressed his gratitude following his election. “I am truly honored to have been entrusted with this significant role. I would like to thank the member bodies of WAUTI for their confidence in Nigeria,” he stated. “I am committed to working closely with my fellow executives and partners in the region to enhance professionalism in our tax systems.”

WAUTI, which comprises national tax institutes and associations across the ECOWAS sub-region, aims to promote tax professionalism, improve compliance, and streamline tax administration. Its vision is to harmonize taxation practices throughout West Africa, fostering a fair and transparent system that benefits all member economies.

“Together, we need to ensure that our taxation systems not only serve our nations but also enhance economic cooperation within the region,” Mr. Agbeluyi added during his acceptance speech.

With extensive experience in the field, Mr. Agbeluyi is well-equipped for his new role. Over the years, he has held numerous significant positions within WAUTI, including Honorary Treasurer and 2nd Vice President. In addition to his presidency at CITN, he is a member of prominent organizations such as the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, the Institute of Directors, Nigeria, CIoD.

During the AGM, other executive members for WAUTI’s 2025 – 2027 term were also elected, with Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, FCTI, the current Vice President of the CITN being re-elected as the Honorary Treasurer.

“Mr. Ohagwa’s re-election is a testament to his dedication and the pivotal role he plays in our organization,” Mr. Agbeluyi stated in reference to his fellow executive member.