Prof. Ani of MOUAU Delivers Lecture on Effective Tax Administration at Abia State Workshop
Prof. Ani from MOUAU highlights strategic improvements in tax administration at Abia State workshop, aiming to boost economic development.
Mary Nwaeze 
Prof. Ani, Dean of the College of Management Sciences at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), delivered a compelling lecture on enhancing tax administration in Nigeria. His address, titled “Achieving Effective Tax Administration in Nigeria: Strategies and Best Practices in Abia State,” was a highlight of a workshop organized by the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue Service in collaboration with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
Prof. Ani, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), emphasized the critical role of taxation as a revenue source pivotal for economic development and public needs. He called for strategic planning and improvements in tax administration to overcome existing challenges and improve revenue generation at both federal and state levels.
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In his comprehensive analysis, Prof. Ani addressed the current state of tax administration in Nigeria, with a specific focus on Abia State, citing statistical reports from both levels of government. He identified significant challenges hindering effective tax collection and proposed strategies for improvement. He stressed that tax should be seen as an obligation rather than an option, advocating for a change in citizens' perception of tax payments.
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Prof. Ani highlighted Abia State’s progress in fiscal performance, noting its rise from 18th place in 2022 to 15th among Nigeria’s 36 states. Despite this improvement, he urged the state to further enhance its internal revenue generation by implementing the strategies discussed during the workshop.
To enhance the effectiveness of the workshop, Prof. Ani suggested that participants receive certifications upon passing examinations at the end of each session. This approach would motivate attendees to be more engaged and invested in the training. He also recommended disseminating the knowledge gained from the training to the grassroots level, ensuring proper implementation of the discussed concepts. This, he concluded, would maximize the benefits of taxation for economic development and public services.
The two-day workshop, focusing on governance, reporting, and evaluation of tax expenditure for tax enumerations, was sponsored by the Tax for SDGs Initiative, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals. It drew participants from all 17 local government areas of Abia State, along with attendees from other regions.
Prof. Ani’s lecture underscored the importance of effective tax administration in driving economic development. By adopting the strategies and best practices discussed, Abia State can significantly enhance its internal revenue generation and fiscal performance, contributing to broader economic growth and development.
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