In a move to foster harmonious relationship between the Ekiti state government and the tailoring community, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Revenue and Tax Matters to the State Governor, Mr Ayodeji Adarabierin alongside his counterpart on IGR Mr. Yomi Osho has held a crucial meeting with the Tailoring Association of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter.
The meeting, which took place in Ado Ekiti was at the instance of the Association for mediation on issues that bothers on Tax payments in the state.
During the interactive session, the SSA on Tax and IGR highlighted the need for tax compliance, stressing that it is a civic responsibility and a critical component of democratic governance.
‘’ It is importance we all pay our taxes as and when due as it will help in the promotion of our economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall well-being of citizens’’ the duo remarked.
The SSAs assured the tailoring community of the state government’s commitment to providing support and incentives to ease tax compliance.
They used the avenue to enlighten the Association on various taxes they need to pay and their rights under the law whenever they feel an assessment is outrageous.
They charged them to see Tax Officers as their friends who are working for the progress of the state and to support the government of Oyebanji in order to enjoy more dividend of democracy.
Furthermore, the SSA on Tax revealed that he had embarked on series on enlightenment programmes on different radio stations in the state and Ekiti state Television to provide tax education and training programs for the people, which he said would enhance their understanding of tax laws and regulations.
The tailoring community presented their concerns, including difficulties in accessing tax rates, and the need for tax education and training.
The Chairman, Tailoring Association of Nigeria, Okesha branch Mr. Temitope Adeniyi, his counterpart at Ijigbo Mr. Folorunso Vincent and Mr Akinola Olufemi from Orereowu thanked the SSAs for their timely intervention adding that their coming averted the members’ plan to stage a protest against hike in multiple tax payments in the state
They thereafter pledged their support for BAO administration and promised to always pay their taxes as and when due.
The association acknowledged the governor’s efforts in infrastructural development and pledged to work closely with relevant government offices for better engagement and support.
Some of the concerns raised by members of the group were Non-inclusion in benefits for artisans, Perceived lack of support and recognition for trade associations and high taxation, leading to a reduction in membership and participation among others.
