Reforms: Mutfwang tasks FG on efficient tax administration

The governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has called for transparency, accountability and inclusivity in the implementation of tax reforms by the federal government.

Mutfwang spoke at the 27th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) held at the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Federal Capital Territory, with the theme, “Taxation for Development: Policies, Laws, and Implementation”.

The director of press and public affairs to the governor, Gyang Bere, in a statement, quoted the governor as expressing the commitment of his administration to “judicious, prudent and transparent management of the state resources in order to stimulate sustainable development.”

The governor promised to collaborate with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee and the Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure efficient tax administration across all levels.

He pointed out that at the sub-national level, states are committed to prudent resource management to ensure the prosperity of the people, saying poverty cannot be taxed.

He said, “I commend the CITN for organising this important conference to reflect on how taxation policies and collection mechanisms can be more effective in fostering national development. This is crucial as taxation remains a key driver for funding government programmes.

“There is the need for transparency, accountability and inclusivity in the implementation of tax reforms to ensure they yield the intended outcomes for all Nigerians.

“To test the validity and credibility of the current tax reforms, those charged with their implementation must embrace transparency and inclusiveness. This is the only way to achieve equitable dividends of development.”

The governor further revealed that Plateau State’s internally generated revenue had been on a steady increase from N800 million to N3 billion monthly since the inception of his administration.

He attributed the progress to strategic reforms and investment in the economy.