By Elizabeth Osayande & Marvelous Allen

In a keynote address at the 2025 Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN fellowship conferment, Managing Partner of Tac Professional Services, Tunde Adaramaja, urged tax professionals to view taxation as a “catalyst for inclusive growth and shared prosperity” rather than a mere fiscal obligation.

Speaking to a gathering of 685 newly‑inducted CITN Fellows, Adaramaja stressed that tax revenue is the most reliable, sustainable source of national development. “Through taxation, governments build roads, fund schools, strengthen healthcare, and sustain social infrastructure,” he said. “Beyond collection, taxation shapes behaviour, drives investment decisions, and reflects a nation’s economic philosophy.” He called on Fellows to go beyond computation and compliance, emphasising that every accurate assessment and fair advice strengthens the social contract between the state and its citizens.

Adaramaja’s remarks come as Nigeria prepares to roll out sweeping tax reforms, slated for January 2026. CITN President Innocent Ohagwa described the overhaul as “one of the most robust and decisive shifts toward a more efficient, streamlined and technologically driven tax administration” in the country. He warned that the reforms’ success hinges on CITN members, urging them to lead by example and continuously upgrade their skills through the Institute’s training programmes, webinars, and the annual tax conference.

In line with the reforms, the CITN has launched more than 14 webinar series, a monthly “CITN Taxation and You” forum, and advocacy drives across its 49 district societies to bridge the knowledge gap between tax authorities and taxpayers.

Registrar/Chief Executive Mrs Folaka Oso echoed the call for ethical standards, reminding the new Fellows that the fellowship “is not merely a title, but a testament to professional excellence, integrity, and dedicated service” to the nation’s tax profession.

Chairman of the Membership and Professional Conduct Committee, Dr Yemi Sanni, added that the newly elevated Fellows are now “ambassadors of the Institute” with a higher expectation to contribute to the Institute’s activities and to the development of district societies.