President of Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (ECCIMA) Sir Odeiga Jideonwo,
has called for legislative reforms to establish a centralized tax framework.
He made the call Thursday , at the maiden edition of Business Community Interactive Forum on Tax Matters held at ECCIMA House, Enugu.
The forum,with the theme “Building Synergy in Achieving Enugu State Development Through Tax Policies and Administration: Government and Business Community Roles,” was organized by ESIRS in collaboration with the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (ECCIMA).
Jideonwo noted that having it in place will foster an investment-friendly environment.
His words,”addressing these challenges is essential for sustaining existing businesses and attracting new investments”. He commended Governor Mbah for his visionary leadership and commitment to the state’s progress.
On the organisation of the forum, he said the initiative was a significant step toward sustainable economic development.
Speaking, Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESiRS),. Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani, called on the business community in the state to embrace the state government’s tax reforms as a means of fostering economic growth and sustainable development.
He emphasized the transformative agenda of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, describing it as a turning point for the state.
“This administration is determined to ensure that Enugu competes with the best economies in the world. To achieve this, the business community must understand the importance of tax compliance and its role in driving development.” He reassured attendees that efforts are underway to improve the ease of doing business in the state.
Nnamani highlighted the need for renewed trust between the government and the business sector.
He said they were at the forum to change that narrative and give business community reasons to believe in the vision of the state government.
He urged stakeholders to view tax payment as a civic responsibility, adding, “Paying your taxes is not just an obligation; it is a commitment to the progress of our state.”Jideonwo expressed concerns over the multiplicity of levies and taxes across local government areas, stating that such practices have led to business closures, job losses, and reduced operational capacities of the State in the past.This forum represents an opportunity for stakeholders to identify and address barriers hindering business growth in Enugu,” he said
Participants at the forum lauded the initiative and called for regular engagements between the government and the business community.
The forum reached a resolution to document decisions made, which will serve as a resource for shaping tax policies and driving reforms in Enugu State.
Participants at the forum comprised traders, shareholders among others.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama