International Friendship League Hosts Workshop on Landmark Tax Reforms Act
The Port Harcourt Chapter of the International Friendship League (IFL) convened its monthly evening variety meeting, featuring a critical workshop focused on the newly enacted Tax Reforms Act. The event brought together community members and professionals to dissect the forthcoming changes to the nation’s fiscal landscape.
Understanding the 2026 Tax Implications
Centered on the theme, “The New Tax Reforms Act: Its Implications on Individual and Corporate Entities in 2026,” the workshop served as an educational platform, clarifying the act’s provisions and its profound importance for the future.
A Moral and Civic Duty
Pastor Pious Idume, the State Overseer of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, addressed the gathering, framing tax compliance within a context of faith and civic responsibility. Drawing from the books of Matthew and Isaiah, Pastor Idume urged Christians to be passionate about living exemplary lives, which includes the prompt payment of taxes.
“God said there is need for every citizen to pay tax. It is important to be passionate to live an exemplary life. Prompt payment of tax is obedient to God’s law and a practical demonstration of loyalty,” he stated, emphasizing that every Christian should give God their heart as it belongs to Him.
Demystifying the Digital Tax System
During his lecture, Professor Ezekiel Edem Williams, a taxation expert, broke down the technical core of the new legislation. He explained that the New Tax Reforms Act fundamentally means consolidating all taxes into a single, streamlined digital system.
“This new system is devoid of multiple taxation,” Professor Williams said, highlighting a key benefit for businesses. He noted that the act is designed to favor low-income earners, as it will not directly affect them, wryly observing that “death and taxation are the two things in life.”
He stressed the government’s reliance on this revenue, stating, “Taxation is where government does all its expenditures, that is why it is important to pay tax. If you don’t pay tax, the government will be transgressing.”
A Two-Way Street: Citizen Accountability
Adding another layer to the discussion, Professor Uche Jack-Osimiri highlighted a pivotal shift in the relationship between the citizen and the state under the new act. He clarified that while paying taxes remains a mandatory obligation, the law now empowers citizens to demand accountability.
“We are obligated to pay tax. It is mandatory to pay tax; if you do not, you make yourself vulnerable. Government too has to play its role by providing security and other social amenities,” Professor Jack-Osimiri explained. “The good thing is that in the new law, citizens can ask government how the tax monies were spent.”
This provision marks a significant step towards greater fiscal transparency and a more reciprocal social contract, giving taxpayers a direct voice in the management of public funds.
By: Tonye Orabere
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