By Elizabeth Osayande & Marvelous Allen, LAGOS

A night of tributes organised by the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) took place on Tuesday in honour of its founder, Chief David Ajibola Olorunleke. Former Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman Dr Tunde Fowler reflected on how the late tax pioneer’s vision transformed Lagos’s revenue base.

“During my tenure as Chairman of the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service (LIRS) in 2005, the state was struggling,” Fowler recounted. “The governor, now President, had a belief that we could become self-sufficient by generating our own tax revenue. My first step was to partner with CITN because they truly understood taxation. We provided our staff with free lessons, covered their exam costs, and required all managers to become CITN members.”

“I want to emphasise that without CITN, Lagos State would not have progressed as far as it has in terms of tax revenue. Through my research, I discovered that the visionary behind CITN was the individual we are honouring today. At a time when Nigeria largely overlooked tax revenue, he displayed extraordinary vision. Without that vision, I honestly do not know where Nigeria would be. He played a vital role in helping Lagos State become self-sufficient within two years. After three years, Lagos State was generating about two and a half times what we were receiving from federal allocations.”

Earlier during the event, the 17th President of CITN, Mr Innocent Ohagwa, praised Olorunleke, whose name now adorns the CITN building in Abuja, for impacting lives through his exemplary lifestyle, leadership, and mentorship.

“His passing is not only a personal loss for the family but also a profound one for the Institute and the entire tax profession in Nigeria. Chief Olorunleke was more than just the pioneer and longest-serving President of CITN (1985-1995); he was the visionary architect whose foresight and dedicated leadership laid the enduring foundation upon which CITN stands today. His passion for excellence in taxation practice and his strong belief in professionalism gave rise to an institution that continues to shape fiscal governance and tax administration in Nigeria.”

The event also featured remarks from the President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, who described Olorunleke as “the man of integrity,” noting that his contributions to national development extended beyond professional leadership. “He exemplified vision, fairness, and integrity, leaving an enduring mark on the nation’s tax administration,” he stated.

Zacch Adedeji, the current FIRS boss, represented by Mr Femi Oyebamiji, highlighted that the deceased embodied integrity, clarity of purpose, and a commitment to public service.

“Throughout his career, he mentored many, inspired countless others, and left an indelible mark on the institution he helped build. His passing is not only a loss to the tax community but a personal one for many. He was a guiding figure for all who benefited from his wisdom and kindness. Although he is no longer with us, the values he championed—professionalism, humility, discipline, and service to the greater good—remain his lasting legacy.”

Earlier, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, urged attendees to “seek the virtues and lessons from the life of the late Olorunleke” and to live up to the legacy he left behind.

Family members, led by his wife of 58 years, Mrs Olufunmilayo, and his children, Oladele and Yetunde, and Captain Philip Olukotun shared personal tributes, while dignitaries such as former FIRS chair Ms Ifueke Omoigui Okauru and past CITN presidents, among others, also paid their respects.

Chief Olorunleke, who passed away at the age of 80, is remembered as the “Doyen of Taxation,” whose impact on Nigeria’s fiscal landscape remains unmatched. He was not just the pioneer and longest-serving President of CITN but a significant figure in the development of tax practice in Nigeria.