Stakeholders Advocate Automated Tax Payment System In Anambra

Various speakers at a one-day sensitization on tax policies in Anambra state have advocated an automated mode of tax payment to ensure transparency in the process.

The sensitization programme which was organized by the Social and Integral Development Center, in collaboration with Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room and supported by UK Department for International Development took place in Awka and drew stakeholders from Anambra South Senatorial District.

The Executive Director of Social and Integral Development Center, Mrs Ugochi Ehiahuruike said the centre is geared towards deepening democracy and making governance work for all, promoting participatory budget process to achieve inclusive participation as well as promoting strategic leadership, justice, equity and sustainable development.

Mrs Ehiahuruike noted that the sensitization programme is one of the means of fulfilling the mandate of the centre through which they expose participants to the core needs of the citizenry as contained in the 2024 budget.

The Director of Assessment, Anambra State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Herbert Ofomata disclosed that the sensitization is apt as people need to be aware of what tax is all about so as to comply with the law.

Mr Ofomata explained that as tax payment improves, Ndi Anambra will enjoy more dividends of democracy as the present administration is keen to develop all sectors of the state economy.

In a presentation, the Information Communication Technology Officer of Social and Integral Development Center, Mr Bruno Chimnecherem said lack of clarity on taxation powers of each level of government and encroachment on such powers are some of the challenges of the Nigerian tax system.

The President-General of Awa Development Union, Dr Raymond Offor, commended the convener of the programme, stating that if the leadership of all communities will take ownership of projects sited in their communities, the government will go a long way in delivering new projects, advising his colleagues to help the government in protecting public facilities.

On her part, a trader, Mrs Chioma Okeke called on the government to create more awareness on taxation and protection against touting while providing basic infrastructure for the citizenry.