The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has welcomed a partnership proposal from the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) aimed at combatting fraud and fostering transparency and accountability in the national taxation system.
The endorsement, announced on Wednesday, followed a courtesy visit to the ICPC Headquarters in Abuja by Mr. Samuel Agbeluyi, the President of CITN. Aliyu described the partnership as crucial in the fight against tax-related corruption.
Aliyu outlined the key components of the partnership, which include public awareness campaigns, technological advancements, and policy advocacy. These elements, according to him, play a vital role in promoting transparency, accountability, and excellence within the taxation sector. He stressed the importance of Nigerians contributing to the development of the country by regularizing tax payments.
Moreover, Aliyu expressed his commitment to solidify the relationship between ICPC and CITN by revisiting the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and ensuring that its terms are revised and improved.
The ICPC Chairman assured CITN of the Commission’s unwavering support and its readiness to collaborate with other significant players in the sector, such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), to effectively prevent and address tax-related offenses.
In response, the President of CITN, Samuel Agbeluyi, reiterated the institute’s dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s standing by addressing shortcomings in the taxation system. This commitment has driven CITN to engage in numerous discussions with stakeholders to promote excellence, professionalism, and ethical standards in taxation practices.
Agbeluyi emphasized the pivotal role of an efficient tax system in building a sustainable and prosperous economy. He stated that the drive to make taxation a cornerstone of national economic development necessitated collaboration with key stakeholders.
Among the areas where CITN hopes to partner is capacity building and public advocacy. The institute aims to create a robust and efficient tax administration system that will boost the country’s revenue generation.