Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has revoked the policy requiring parents’ Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) for students to enroll in state-owned tertiary institutions.
The announcement, made by the Chairman of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS), Alhaji Sule Enehe, follows public backlash and protests by civil society groups.
Governor Ododo emphasized the need to maintain education accessibility, stating that no student should face barriers to education due to their parents’ inability to provide a Tax Clearance Certificate.
Enehe confirmed the administration’s commitment to affordable and quality education, evidenced by the state’s investment in three universities. However, he urged residents to fulfil their tax obligations, warning that non-compliance could affect access to government benefits, including student bursaries.
To tackle illegal tax activities, KGIRS has intensified efforts against fraudulent agents, prosecuting 43 illegal tax collectors and dismissing corrupt staff members. Additionally, tax payment processes have been digitized to enhance compliance.
The KGIRS has reported consistent revenue growth, generating N17 billion in 2021, N18.2 billion in 2022, N23.5 billion in 2023, and N27.7 billion in 2024, with a target of N35.1 billion for 2025.
“Kogi State is committed to providing quality and affordable education, which is evident in the establishment of three state-owned universities. Parents must play their part by paying taxes to support these initiatives and other social amenities,” he added.
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