By Mubarak Ahmed
Ahead of the implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026, the Kogi State Government has constituted a Tax Reform Committee to facilitate the domestication of the Nigeria Tax Acts 2025 in the state.
The Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS), Alhaji Salihu Sule Enehe, disclosed this in Lokoja during a one-day Interactive Stakeholder’s Engagement Forum on the Nigeria Tax Acts 2025.
He said the forum was organised for staff of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to adequately prepare them for their roles and responsibilities as the state moves towards full implementation of the new tax regime.
Alhaji Enehe allayed concerns that the new tax laws would impoverish taxpayers, noting that although the initial phase of implementation might come with some disruptions, the long-term benefits would far outweigh the challenges.
He urged MDA officials to support the reform process by being diligent, committed and professional in the discharge of their duties.
He explained that prior to the new law, state and local governments collected as many as 46 different tax items, but the Nigeria Tax Acts 2025 have harmonised them into just nine single-digit taxes to promote collaboration, equity, fairness and transparency in tax administration.
Also speaking at the forum, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Doctor Nasir Ichanyi, commended Governor Usman Ododo for his visionary leadership and commitment to domesticating the new fiscal policy in Kogi State.
He said the governor’s dedication to good governance and economic reforms had continued to strengthen fiscal discipline and promote sustainable development in the state.
Dr Ichanyi further praised the management of KGIRS for its professionalism, dedication and proactive engagement with stakeholders, describing these efforts as a clear demonstration of commitment to ensuring the smooth implementation of the new tax regime.
Earlier, Bamidele Suru, in his presentation on the overview of the Nigeria Tax Acts 2025, acknowledged that while the policy may not be perfect, it offers significant benefits to taxpayers and the economy at large.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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