Mr Samuel Agbeluyi, the president and Chairman of the Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), asks new licensed tax practitioners to uphold ethical standards while discharging their duties.

Agbeluyi made this known during the presentation of practising licence certificate in Lagos State on Wednesday.

He stated that,“ I urge all of you to consistently demonstrate the highest levels of ethical standards and professionalism expected of licensed tax practitioners. It is important to remember that your actions going forward have a significant impact, not only on your practice but also on the profession and the institute as a whole.

 “It speaks volumes to the relevance that Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria accord in ensuring that only qualified and certified persons practice taxation in the country.”

According to Agbeluyi, the institute expects practitioners to refer always to the provisions of its charter, professional rules and practice guidelines and the statement of taxation standards.

He noted that the institute also expected tax practitioners to hold in high esteem its core values, which had been redefined as service, teamwork, excellence and professionalism.

“I implore you, therefore, to strictly adhere to these guidelines and principles at all times in the course of your practice.

“The institute will not fail to wield the big stick of discipline where there are reported and established cases of misconduct by practitioners. Our Investigating Panel and Disciplinary Tribunal are equipped and active to dispense such matters,” he warned.

He urged recently licensed tax practitioners to enrich themselves with the ongoing evolution of global taxation and best practices.

“As tax professionals, it is essential for us to consistently enhance our knowledge to address the evolving demands of taxation,” he added.

Agbeluyi noted that members should be aware of the institute’s efforts to increase its certification value.

“A recent circular from the FIRS requires tax computations in returns to be prepared only by CITN-licensed practitioners. The council is actively working to ensure compliance with this requirement,” he stated.

Agbeluyi emphasized that the institute was advocating for tax professionals to lead Ministries, Agencies, and Departments to boost revenue generation and prevent leakages.