Zacch Adedeji, the President of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators, and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, has urged for increased capacity building to enhance tax administration processes among its members.
According to Dare Adekanmbi, the Special Adviser on Media, on Wednesday, Adedeji made the call in his remarks at the opening of the CATA management meeting held at Marlborough House, Pall Mall, London.
He said that expanding the capacity of tax personnel in CATA member countries would empower them to deal with the challenges that have negatively impacted the tax administration landscape globally.
Adedeji noted that rapid advancement in tax technology presents both opportunities and threats, and also called for further adoption of technology to improve tax processes.
“Furthermore, the rapid advancement in tax technology and digitization has presented both opportunities and challenges for tax administrators worldwide. The discussions surrounding pillars one and two of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development have the potential to redefine international tax rules.
“Additionally, the landmark tax convention resolution at the United Nations Assembly has underscored the importance of international cooperation and inclusivity of all in addressing tax challenges. In light of these developments, it has become increasingly evident that the need for improved and more comprehensive capacity building for CATA members is paramount,” he said.
Adedeji added that it had become imperative for member nations to be knowledgeable and have the necessary skills to understand the evolving discussions and contribute to the formulation of transparent and beneficial rules for our respective jurisdictions.
“Moreover, we must be prepared to effectively implement these rules once they are concluded, to ensure their successful integration into our tax administration frameworks and maximise the benefit they will bring,” he declared.
Adedeji commended the management committee and members who had agreed to host the body’s programmes in 2024, describing such commitment as a testament to the devotion to the success of the association’s strategic plan.
The management meeting had in attendance tax administrators from the United Kingdom (His Majesty Revenue and Customs), Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Barbados, Papa New Guinea, Ghana, Lesotho, Maldives, Uganda, Mauritius, Nigeria and others.
