As part of activities marking the National Tax Awareness Day, the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Benin & District Society in collaboration with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), has carried out an extensive tax awareness and sensitization campaign across major commercial hubs in the state capital.
The exercise, anchored on the theme “Tax Awareness for National Growth: Reform, Compliance, and Shared Prosperity,” focused on educating members of the public on their civic rights and obligations under the national tax framework.
During the roadshow, team members from CITN and staff of the EIRS marched through major business corridors, including Ring Road, Mission Road, and New Benin Market, distributing informational materials and engaging traders and business owners directly.
The sensitization exercise aimed to educate citizens on key provisions of the tax reform legislation passed in June 2025, which officially took effect in January 2026.
Addressing market operators, representatives from the coalition urged citizens to dismiss longstanding misconceptions surrounding tax compliance. Officials emphasized that tax compliance should not be viewed as a burden or a punishment, but rather as an essential contribution toward driving infrastructure development and improving public welfare.
Speaking during the campaign, the Head Corporate Communications &Taxpayers Enlightenment Service of the EIRS Courage Eboigbe, highlighted the importance of continuous civic engagement. He noted that sustained collaboration between tax authorities and professional bodies is vital to ensuring taxpayers fully understand their responsibilities and the broader economic benefits of compliance.
Reactions from the business community were mixed but receptive. While several traders reaffirmed their commitment to regular tax payments, others urged government authorities to ensure that revenues collected are visibly translated into improved public amenities and services.
The rally concluded at the EIRS headquarters in Benin City, where participants were formally received by the Executive Director of Income Taxes Mr. Victor Enemare who
Commended the joint initiative. Inneh-Mary expressed appreciation to CITN and EIRS officers for their effort, stating that voluntary tax compliance becomes significantly easier to achieve when citizens are well-informed and can clearly observe the direct impact of public expenditure on society.