Stakeholders seek increased citizen engagement to promote tax justice in Anambra

Lawrence Nwimo, Awka

Stakeholders in Anambra State have called for increased citizen engagement and participation in tax administration to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in the state’s tax system.

During an onboarding meeting for the “Tax for Service Project” in Awka, stakeholders stressed that increased engagement with citizens on tax issues would raise awareness about tax obligations and ensure that citizens understand how tax revenue is utilized.

The meeting, attended by key government officials, market leaders, civil society advocates, and media professionals, highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach in fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among taxpayers.

Executive Director of the Social and Integral Development Centre and host of the Tax Justice and Governance Platform (TJ&GP), Ugochi Ehiahuruike, said the event was held in collaboration with Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and supported by OXFAM Nigeria.

Ugochi noted that the Tax for Service project aims to sensitize market leaders on the importance of voluntary tax compliance, develop charters of demand, and solicit government intervention for inclusion in the 2025-2026 state budget.

She said the project will engage 21 major markets across Anambra State’s three Senatorial zones, with seven markets per zone. She also said the expected outcomes is the production of the Anambra State Tax for Service Market Report, enhanced tax compliance among market traders, and improved government accountability and responsiveness to market needs.

Speaking during the meeting, Commissioner for Industry and Commerce, Christian Udechukwu, emphasized the significance of data and revenue in good governance, noting that accurate data enables effective planning and utilization of revenue.

Udechukwu, represented by Mr Chuka Okeke acknowledged the challenge of multiple taxation, citing the lack of awareness among citizens about their tax obligations. To address this, he said government has implemented the automation of the taxation system and harmonizing of taxes to increase efficiency of tax collection in the state.

On his own, Chairman, Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue Service, Dr Greg Ezeilo, represented by Mr Herbert Ofomata, stated that the target is to get traders to pay their taxes. “Our primary objective is to unlock the financial potential within our markets. Revenue is the lifeblood of any state, and we believe that fostering partnerships between traders and the government is essential for effective governance.”

Contributing, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Joachim Achor, emphasized that the Tax for Service initiative represents a significant milestone in enhancing the state’s revenue generation capabilities. He stated that government is committed to ensuring the effective implementation of the project, by providing necessary support and guidance to facilitate a seamless execution.

Chief Evaristus Ubah, Special Adviser on Trade and Market, Ministry of Trade and Commerce urged traders to comply with the revenue system, ensuring that all market revenues are remitted to the government.

Ubah also encouraged traders to continue raising awareness about the importance of fulfilling their civic duties to promote the state’s advancement.

The Keynote speaker, Prof Uche Nwogwugwu, noted that tax fairness and justice are needed to encourage greater compliance by citizens and propel economic growth.

“If you pay tax to the government, it’s part of social contract. You’re saying to the government, I give you this my tax, use it to protect me and provide some basic needs like health, infrastructure etc,” he said.

Barr Titus Akpudo, National President, Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), noted that people’s willingness to pay taxes depends on how the state utilizes generated revenue. “When citizens don’t see the benefits of their tax payments, they become reluctant to pay. Proactive tax management is essential for development. It’s crucial to focus on efficient tax generation and utilization. Regular engagement with citizens is also necessary to ensure transparency in government spending.”

Similarly, Mr Kryss Molokwu, Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service, called for increased collaborations between state and non-state actors to enhance tax systems in the state.

Ify Unachukwu, Program director at ABS also delivered strategic presentation on implementing tax for service in Anambra state.

Speaking on behalf of traders, National Chairman, Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Aguata Zone, Eze-Igwe Chiedozie, expressed confidence that tax collected from traders are utilized to make the better. He also pledged to sustain the cooperation of traders with the present administration through regular payment of tax.