Nigeria Needs More Taxpayers, Not Higher Taxes

Nigeria needs more taxpayers, not higher taxes, according to Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

According to Punch, Oyedele made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).

Oyedele said Nigeria needs more taxpayers to build a stronger and fairer tax system. He explained that the country’s tax reforms are not designed to place heavier tax burdens on Nigerians.

Instead, the reforms aim to ensure that everyone who is required to pay tax does so. He added that the government wants to make the tax system more transparent and efficient.

According to Oyedele, Nigeria needs more taxpayers because the current tax base remains too small to generate the revenue needed for national development. He noted that expanding the tax net would improve government income without increasing tax rates.

He also said many Nigerians misunderstand the ongoing reforms. Some believe the government wants to introduce higher taxes. However, he insisted that this is not the objective. Rather, the reforms focus on improving compliance and promoting fairness across the tax system.

Oyedele stressed that when more eligible citizens and businesses meet their tax obligations, the government will be in a better position to provide public services and support economic growth. He added that Nigeria needs more taxpayers if it hopes to build a sustainable revenue system.

The tax reform chairman also urged the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria to continue educating Nigerians on the importance of tax compliance. He said greater public awareness would help correct misconceptions about the reforms and encourage voluntary tax payments.

During the visit, the CITN leadership reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s tax reform agenda. The institute also pledged to continue working with relevant stakeholders to improve tax education and promote compliance across the country.

Oyedele further encouraged the institute to recognise individuals and organisations that consistently meet their tax obligations. According to him, rewarding responsible taxpayers could encourage more Nigerians to comply with tax laws.

He maintained that Nigeria needs more taxpayers, not higher taxes, adding that expanding the tax base remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen the economy.

The visit also gave both parties an opportunity to discuss ways of deepening cooperation in support of the country’s ongoing fiscal and tax reform efforts.