The governor made the call during the 2026 grand finale of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) Tax Club Quiz Competition held in Ilorin.
Represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, AbdulRazaq said educating young people about taxation from an early age would help them understand its importance in financing public infrastructure and essential services.
He explained that improved tax awareness would encourage voluntary compliance, promote fairness and build a generation that understands the relationship between tax payments, government expenditure, accountability and development.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting educational initiatives that equip young people with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to society.
Meanwhile, Government Secondary School, Lafiagi, emerged overall winner of the annual competition, securing the N2.5 million grand prize for the second consecutive year.
Saint Anthony Secondary School, Ilorin, finished in second position and received N1.5 million, while Ebenezer High School, Ilorin, came third with a N1 million reward.
In the individual student category, the overall winner received N500,000, while the second and third-place participants were awarded N375,000 and N200,000 respectively.
Their coordinating teachers also received cash rewards of N150,000, N100,000 and N50,000 based on their students’ positions.
Speaking at the event, KWIRS Executive Chairman, Shade Omoniyi, encouraged the participating students to apply the knowledge gained from the competition to their academic development and future responsibilities.
She explained that the annual initiative forms part of the agency’s 5Es Community Impact Programmes, particularly its education component, which aims to promote tax awareness and responsible citizenship among young people.
Omoniyi added that the competition also helps students develop confidence, critical-thinking abilities and a healthy spirit of competition.
The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, who also attended the event, urged stakeholders to sustain investments in education, noting its importance in improving living standards and securing the future of younger generations.
