Nigeria’s Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms has commended the Kogi State government for its “leadership role” in adopting a new harmonised tax framework designed to end multiple taxation.
The committee’s chairman, Taiwo Oyedele, highlighted Kogi as an “early adopter” of the Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law, a key pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s national economic agenda.
The move is part of a wider effort to modernise tax administration across Nigeria and create a more “investor-friendly” environment.
Eliminating ‘illegal roadblocks’
The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) noted that the new law is specifically designed to streamline pre-existing taxes into a single, approved list. Crucially, the reform outlaws the use of illegal roadblocks and arbitrary tax collections, which have long been a source of frustration for businesses and transporters in the region.
Key benefits of the new framework:
- Transparency: Promotes the use of technology to reduce cash handling.
- Security: Introduces stronger safeguards against revenue leakages.
- Investor Confidence: Aligns state laws with national standards to encourage business growth.
A ‘major milestone’
Kogi was listed alongside Anambra, Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Zamfara as the first states to domesticate the national framework.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo recently signed the Kogi State Taxes and Levies Law, 2025, to formalise the state’s transition to the new system.
Government reaction
Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, said the reform would strengthen the state’s revenue mobilisation while protecting citizens from the “challenges of multiple taxation.”
“This underlines Kogi’s dedication to a transparent and efficient tax governance system that supports economic growth,” Mr. Isah added.
The Joint Revenue Board acknowledged that the collaboration between state internal revenue services and the national committee is vital for the success of the overarching federal tax reform initiative.
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