The Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms has publicly applauded the Kogi State Government for its proactive role in advancing Nigeria's national tax reform agenda. The commendation focuses on the state's formal adoption of the Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law, a critical move designed to streamline tax collection and curb arbitrary charges.
National Recognition for Early Adoption
In a significant report issued by the Joint Revenue Board, Kogi State was highlighted as one of the pioneering states in Nigeria to implement the harmonised tax framework. The report, which followed Bayelsa State's own passage of the law, was presented by the committee's Chairman, Taiwo Oyedele. It marks the adoption as a major milestone in modernising tax administration across the country.
Kogi stands alongside Anambra, Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Zamfara as an early adopter. This action reinforces the state's position as a leader in driving fiscal policy changes aligned with the national vision championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.
What the Harmonised Tax Law Means for Business
The core objective of the harmonised tax laws is to eliminate the burden of multiple taxation. It achieves this by consolidating numerous pre-existing taxes into a single, clear, and officially approved list. Crucially, the law outlaws illegal roadblocks and arbitrary tax collections that have long plagued businesses and individuals.
The Joint Revenue Board's report emphasised that this framework is a tool for promoting transparency. It reduces reliance on cash handling, encourages the use of technology, and establishes stronger safeguards against revenue leakages within the system.
Strengthening Revenue and Building Confidence
The Board explicitly stated that aligning with this law enhances Kogi State's tax administration to meet national standards. The direct benefits are multifaceted:
- Enhanced taxpayer confidence due to clarity and predictability.
- Improved compliance rates from businesses and citizens.
- A more attractive and investor-friendly business environment is created.
Reacting to the national recognition, the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, confirmed the strategic importance of the reform. He stated that the new tax laws will significantly strengthen the state's internal revenue mobilisation efforts. The laws directly address the historical challenges posed by multiple taxation and illegal levies.
Hon. Isah further highlighted that the collaboration between the Joint Revenue Board and the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service underscores the state's unwavering dedication to establishing a transparent and efficient tax governance system. This system is viewed as a fundamental pillar for sustainable economic growth.
A Signed Commitment to Reform
This development follows the recent action by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who signed the Kogi State Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, 2025 into effect. This executive move formally aligned the state's legal framework with the national harmonised tax model advocated by the Presidential Tax Committee and the Joint Revenue Board.
