The Dawn of a New Era: Innocent Ohagwa Takes the Helm at CITN
The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) witnessed a significant transition of leadership on Saturday as Innocent Ohagwa was formally invested as its 17th president. The investiture ceremony, held in Lagos, marked the culmination of a distinguished career for Ohagwa, a seasoned professional with an impressive track record in finance, taxation, and information systems. His journey, spanning over three and a half decades, includes pivotal roles at prominent organizations such as Akintola Williams & Co (now Deloitte), Century Merchant Bank Ltd, Murtari Dangana & Co, and a notable 24-year tenure at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), where he rose to the position of Coordinating Director, General Services Group. Ohagwa’s diverse experience and expertise uniquely position him to lead the CITN into a new era of growth and influence.
Ohagwa’s investiture drew a distinguished audience, including representatives from government, academia, and the private sector. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, represented by his Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Opeyemi Ogungbo, expressed confidence in Ohagwa’s leadership, emphasizing his potential to drive positive reforms within the Nigerian taxation landscape. The presence of Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, underscored the event’s significance and the importance of collaboration between government and professional bodies in shaping tax policy. Professor Muhammad Mainoma, former Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address, highlighting the importance of collaboration and technological advancements in shaping the future of taxation.
In accepting the mantle of leadership, Ohagwa expressed humility and gratitude for the trust placed in him by the institute’s members and past presidents. He acknowledged the pivotal role CITN has played in shaping Nigeria’s taxation landscape and pledged to build upon the successes achieved under the institute’s 2021-2027 Strategic Plan, “Developing the Tax Profession.” His vision for the future includes laying the groundwork for the next strategic plan, ensuring the continued growth and relevance of the CITN in the evolving world of taxation. Ohagwa’s acceptance speech resonated with a sense of purpose and dedication, signaling his commitment to advancing the profession and serving the interests of its members.
Outgoing President Samuel Agbeluyi offered his valedictory remarks, praising Ohagwa’s character and dedication. Agbeluyi described Ohagwa as a selfless individual with immense strength, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the institute effectively. He urged members to offer their unwavering support to the new president, emphasizing the collective responsibility in shaping the future of the CITN. The smooth transition of leadership demonstrated the institute’s commitment to continuity and its focus on achieving its strategic objectives.
Professor Mainoma’s keynote address delved into the future of taxation, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration between tax professionals, government agencies, technology providers, and the public. He highlighted the emergence of collaborative tax platforms and the increasing integration of private systems with government portals, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. Mainoma stressed the importance of engaging taxpayers through education, surveys, and feedback loops to foster voluntary compliance and build trust. He envisioned a future where collaboration between regulators and professionals leads to more practical, inclusive, and adaptive tax policies.
The investiture of Innocent Ohagwa as the 17th President of CITN signifies a new chapter in the institute’s journey. With his wealth of experience, clear vision, and the support of the membership, Ohagwa is poised to navigate the complexities of the evolving tax landscape and lead the CITN towards continued growth and influence. His commitment to consolidating past successes, preparing for the future, and fostering collaboration positions the institute to play a crucial role in shaping the future of taxation in Nigeria. The event marked not just a change in leadership but a reaffirmation of the CITN’s commitment to its core values and its dedication to advancing the profession for the benefit of its members and the nation as a whole.
