The Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS) has conducted a structured training programme for its tax officials to prepare them for the newly introduced tax reforms across the state. The two-day capacity-building workshop, held at Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan in Abeokuta, focused on building the practical skills needed to implement recent changes to tax policy effectively.
The Executive Chairman, Olugbenga Olaleye, said the training, under the theme “Navigating the New Tax Reforms,” was designed to equip officials with the knowledge and discipline needed for efficient service delivery and alignment with evolving fiscal policies.
Olaleye emphasised that tax authorities must remain adaptable and committed to ongoing learning in the face of policy change. He stated, “Let us get things right and be open to learning, training, and enlightenment; through this, we will sharpen ourselves. This programme is meant for us to unlearn and re-learn.”
A visiting resource person, who is the Executive Chairman of the Kano State Internal Revenue Service, outlined the objectives behind the new reforms, noting their intention to harmonise tax administration and reduce the compliance burden on citizens. He said, “The central aim of the new tax law is to reduce the burden on Nigerians, make life easier for citizens and ease the process of tax payment for taxpayers.”
Officials participating in the programme stressed the importance of clear communication with taxpayers about the rationale and benefits of the reforms, arguing that well-informed citizens are more likely to comply without enforcement pressure. They noted that reform success depends on improved accountability and a broadening of the state’s revenue base.
Leadership and organisational behaviour were core parts of the discussions. The CEO of D&A Associates, Stella Olaleye, advised revenue officers that effective leadership is rooted in mindset and conduct, saying, “Leadership is determined by mindset rather than position.” She urged participants to support team performance, practise empathy, and apply strategic thinking in daily operations.
The workshop also tackled workplace dynamics such as emotional intelligence. A facilitator explained that emotional intelligence enables better understanding and management of personal emotions while encouraging respectful interaction with others. He highlighted the importance of punctuality, professional attire, courteous language and active listening in fostering a productive work environment.
OGIRS senior directors praised the initiative, underscoring that enhanced capacity among staff would ensure accurate dissemination of information on the new tax reforms to taxpayers throughout Ogun State. They urged officials to apply the lessons learned in their duties to support effective implementation.
In summary, the training signals a firm administrative push to strengthen revenue service competence amid significant policy changes. It highlights OGIRS’s commitment to professionalism, efficient tax administration, and adaptive implementation of reforms aimed at improving the state’s fiscal performance.
