The Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms has commended the Kogi State Government for domesticating the Harmonised Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, describing the move as a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing tax reform efforts.
The commendation was contained in a Facebook post by the committee’s Chairman, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, referencing a report by the Joint Revenue Board (JRB). The report followed the passage of similar legislation by Bayelsa State and described the development as a major milestone in the modernisation of tax administration nationwide.
According to the JRB, Kogi State is among the early adopters of the harmonised tax framework, alongside Anambra, Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Zamfara, reinforcing its leadership role in the implementation of tax reforms in the country.
The Board explained that the harmonised tax laws are aimed at eliminating multiple taxation by streamlining numerous taxes into a single approved list, while outlawing illegal roadblocks and arbitrary tax collections. The framework also promotes transparency through reduced cash handling, increased use of technology, and stronger safeguards against revenue leakages.
The JRB further acknowledged the collaborative efforts of state governments and their internal revenue services, including Kogi State, in advancing reforms aligned with the national tax reform initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. It noted that the law enhances taxpayer confidence, improves compliance, and creates a more investor friendly business environment.
Reacting to the development, the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, said the new tax law would strengthen revenue mobilisation, curb multiple taxation, and eliminate illegal levies in the state. He added that the collaboration between the Joint Revenue Board and the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service reflects the state’s commitment to transparency and efficient tax governance that supports economic growth.
It will be recalled that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo recently signed into law the Kogi State Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, 2025, aligning the state with the national harmonised tax framework championed by the Presidential Tax Committee and the Joint Revenue Board.
