Imo State Gov organizes workshop on 2025 tax reform laws
Photo 1: Cross section of the dignitaries during the workshop
Photo 2: Participants during the workshop
By Everest Ezihe, Owerri
In order to enhance public understanding of the provisions and implications of the country’s new Tax Act, the Imo State Ministry of Finance and Coordinating Economy in collaboration with the State’s Internal Revenue Service (IIRS) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Owerri and District Society has organized a one day interactive workshop tagged “Nigeria’s 2025 Tax Reform Laws – Provisions and Implications”
Declaring the workshop open, the Commissioner for Finance and Coordinating Economy,
Mr. Chuck Chuckuemeka stated that the exercise speaks directly about the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to build a more efficient, fair and growth-oriented tax system.
According to the Commissioner “The reforms are designed to broaden the tax base, enhance compliance, reduce leakages and ultimately create a more enabling environment for businesses and investments to thrive, while ensuring sustainable revenue for development across the three tiers of government.”
He further stated that, in order for Imo State to move along with these laws which comes into effect on 1st January 2026, the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has deemed it necessary to have the workshop done at this time so as to offer a platform for open dialogue, clarity on key provisions and practical insights on how the new tax laws affect individuals, businesses and the economy as the State domesticates these laws.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman Imo State House of Assembly Committee on Budget and Appropriation, Hon. Chisom Ojukwu noted that the Nigeria Tax Reforms 2025 are strategically aligned with the objectives of the Imo State Economic Development Plan, particularly in the areas of revenue diversification, private sector-led growth and improved fiscal governance.
The House Committee Chairman who is also the Member representing Nkwerre State Constituency stated that the role of Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS) is critical in translating these reforms into measurable revenue outcomes, while protecting taxpayer rights and encouraging voluntary compliance.
He further commended Governor Uzodimma for what he described as visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to fiscal discipline, economic reforms and sustainable development.
The Lawmaker assured that the State Assembly will ensure that these reforms are fully embedded within Imo State’s fiscal framework, to support credible revenue projections and align with prudent appropriation and efficient public expenditure.
Earlier in his speech, the Permanent Secretary/ Accountant – General of Imo State, Dr. Linus Okafor affirmed that the topics were carefully selected to reflect the moods and clear doubts of most Nigerians who have been engaged in different debates, arguments and counter arguments on the country’s New Tax Act.
Okafor expressed optimism that the workshop will navigate these issues with greater confidence and clarity.
The workshop, however featured four different paper presentations that includes;Tax Compliance and Regulatory Obligations of Tax Payers Under the New Tax Act, 2025 by the Executive Chairman IIRS Mr. Justice Okoye.
Okoye urged the public to focus more on the gains because the new tax laws exempts the poor, while the middle class pays less and the rich pays a more commensurate tax.
He also canvassed on the need for individuals and companies to voluntarily make themselves available for capture into the tax net and obtain their Tax Identity Card, informing that the new law has strengthened the system to capture defaulters.
Among other topics are: Nigeria’s Tax Act 2025 and the Implications of the Various Tax Laws to the State and Private Businesses by the Director General, Imo State Investment Promotion Agency (ISIPA) Prof. Jude Nzeakor,Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria Establishment Act, 2025 by Dr. Samuel Asikogu and Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act, 2025 by Dcn. Joshua Udo Okereke.
The Participants who were drawn from the Private Sector, Civil Society Organizations, Local Governments, Civil Service etc appreciated the State Government for the sensitization workshop and appealed that it should be further taken down to the grassroots for more impacts.
Other dignitaries that were in attendance include Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, Hon. Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education. Local Government Chairmen, Permanent Secretaries, Directors of Accounts, Directors of Administration and General Services.
