The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria has stated that the country’s ongoing tax reforms are creating increased demand for highly skilled and ethical tax professionals, as stricter standards begin to shape the industry.
Speaking during the institute’s 54th induction ceremony in Abuja, the President and Chairman of Council, Innocent Ohagwa, said the changing tax environment has placed greater responsibility on professionals to provide accurate guidance to businesses and individuals navigating the reforms.
According to him, the current period presents significant opportunities for tax practitioners as organisations across the country seek expert advice and clarity amid the ongoing transformation of the tax system.
Ohagwa explained that the institute has strengthened its standards on competence and ethics, stressing that technical expertise is now essential for recertification while integrity remains critical to maintaining public trust.
He noted that the introduction of new tax laws, particularly the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, represents a major shift for the profession by officially recognising certified tax agents and reinforcing the regulatory role of professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.
He encouraged members to actively support the reforms through professionalism and ethical conduct, warning that the credibility of the new tax system would depend largely on the behaviour of practitioners.
Also addressing attendees, the Chairman of the Membership and Professional Conduct Committee, Yemi Sanni, described the reforms as one of the most significant changes in Nigeria’s modern tax history.
He said the implementation of a new tax administration framework and the harmonisation of tax laws from January 2026 are already reshaping the profession and will require strong collaboration from stakeholders to succeed.
Sanni added that tax professionals would play a major role in improving revenue generation, supporting businesses, and strengthening the nation’s fiscal system, while also emphasising the importance of continuous learning and ethical behaviour.
The Registrar and Chief Executive of the institute, Afolake Oso, said the induction ceremony marked the official entry of qualified professionals into a regulated system designed to uphold standards in taxation practice.
She explained that the institute, established in 1982 and chartered in 1992, is legally empowered to regulate taxation practice in Nigeria and enforce professional standards among members.
Oso also reminded members of their obligations, including participation in training programmes, compliance with ethical rules, and payment of subscriptions, warning that violations could lead to sanctions or removal from the membership register.
The ceremony saw the induction of about 1,435 new associate members into the institute.
