CITN President champions technical competence, ethical standards in taxation
Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria CITN
Nike Popoola
The President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, has said technical competence, ethical conduct, and professionalism have become essential qualities for anyone seeking relevance in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving tax environment.
Ohagwa made this known on Tuesday while declaring open the Institute’s November 2025 Pre-Induction Orientation Programme held at Regal Hall, Ikosi Road, Oregun, Lagos.
The well-attended event brought together tax practitioners, financial experts, and other stakeholders in the fiscal sector.
Addressing participants, Ohagwa noted that Nigeria’s tax landscape is undergoing significant transformation following President Bola Tinubu’s assent to four landmark tax-related legislations on June 26, 2025. He explained that the new laws will widen the scope of tax practice and heighten the demand for knowledgeable and ethical tax professionals.
He reiterated the Institute’s commitment to maintaining high entry standards, recalling Section 1(A) of the CITN Charter, which empowers the Council to determine the knowledge and skill levels required for membership.
The CITN President stressed that the pre-induction programme is a critical requirement designed to produce well-rounded professionals capable of contributing meaningfully to tax practice and administration in Nigeria.
He added that the curriculum for the programme includes carefully selected topics covering both practical and technical aspects of taxation. According to him, experienced practitioners and administrators have been engaged to deliver hands-on training through real-life scenarios.
Encouraging inductees, Ohagwa quoted American actress Helen Hayes, saying, “An expert in any field was once a beginner,” urging them to participate with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to learning.
He expressed confidence that the upcoming induction will expand the Institute’s membership and strengthen ongoing efforts to build an effective and efficient tax system. He also noted that the increasing pool of professionals would play a major role in shaping government fiscal policies.
In her remarks, Deputy Director of the CITN Academy, Mrs. Yetunde Suleiman, commended the inductees for their discipline and determination in reaching this stage of their professional journey. She said the programme is vital in preparing them for the ethical and technical demands of modern tax practice.
Suleiman encouraged participants to uphold the Institute’s core values of service, teamwork, excellence, and professionalism as they engage in the two-day practical training sessions facilitated by seasoned experts.
