Nigeria’s tax system must align with global best practices to improve efficiency and boost economic growth, tax expert Olayinka Oyebola has said.
Oyebola made the statement during the 28th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria in Abuja.
The conference was held from May 11 to 15, 2026, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
It was themed, “Tax Reforms and Global Relevance: Positioning Nigeria’s Tax System for a Sustainable Future.”
The event attracted policymakers, tax professionals, financial experts, and private sector stakeholders from across the country.
Oyebola, Managing Partner of Olayinka Oyebola & Co Consult, described the conference theme as timely.
He said Nigeria must modernise its tax administration system to meet international standards.
According to him, a globally competitive tax system would improve compliance and increase government revenue.
He added that it would also boost investor confidence and support sustainable national development.
“Nigeria’s tax system must align with global best practices if we are to achieve efficiency and sustainability in revenue administration,” he said.
Oyebola noted that many countries now rely on technology-driven tax systems to improve transparency and reduce leakages.
He said Nigeria must not be left behind in global tax reforms.
The tax expert also stressed the need for professionalism and ethical conduct in the sector.
He warned practitioners against actions that could damage the credibility of the tax system.
Oyebola cautioned professionals to avoid individuals he described as “sharks” within the industry.
According to him, such individuals could compromise ethical standards for personal gain.
He, however, expressed confidence in the ability of Nigerian tax professionals to compete globally.
He said the country has many highly skilled and experienced practitioners.
Oyebola commended the leadership of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria for organizing the conference.
He described the event as an important platform for knowledge sharing and professional development.
He also reaffirmed his firm’s commitment to integrity and international best practices.
According to him, collaboration with local and international stakeholders remains important for improving tax administration in Nigeria.
Oyebola further urged practitioners to keep updating their knowledge.
He said tax professionals must adapt to emerging global trends to remain relevant in the evolving financial environment.
