KWACCIMA educates SMEs on tax reforms, law

The Kwara State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KWACCIMA) has sensitised Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) owners in the State on the new tax law regime.

The one-day seminar, jointly organised by KWACCIMA, the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), and the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), had the theme: “Tax for SMEs: Supporting Businesses to Thrive Under the New Tax Reform Regime.” was held in Ilorin, the state capital.

Speaking at the event, Abu Salami, President of KWACCIMA, said the Chamber remains committed to advocating policies that promote economic growth, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development across industry, commerce, mining, and agriculture.

Salami explained that the recent tax reforms aim to broaden the revenue base, simplify compliance and create a more predictable fiscal environment.

He said, “For our members – manufacturers, traders, miners, and agribusinesses; these changes present both opportunities and challenges.”

He noted that a transparent and well-structured tax system can unlock investment, improve infrastructure, and support the $1 trillion economy target by 2030 highlighted by national leaders.

“At the same time, we must guard against multiple taxation and high compliance costs that have long burdened businesses, a concern repeatedly raised by NACCIMA stakeholders.

“Our role as a chamber is threefold: to disseminate clear and practical guidance on the new provisions so that every member understands their obligations and benefits; to facilitate dialogue between businesses, tax authorities, and policymakers so that feedback from the field shapes future adjustments; and to provide training, advisory services, and networking platforms that help enterprises adapt, remain competitive, and thrive under the new regime.

“I call on all participants to view this seminar as a launchpad for collaboration. Let us harness the private-sector potential championed by President Bola Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, turning tax reform into a catalyst for job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth. Together, we can build a stronger and more resilient economy for Kwara and for Nigeria”, he added.

Ramat Remi Sulyman, the Vice President, Finance and Professional Practice of KWACCIMA and Chairperson of ANAN, Kwara State Branch, said that part of KWACCIMA’s core mandate is to protect businesses by advocating for ease of doing business in the State.

She emphasised the need to continually educate business owners on proper bookkeeping to avoid incorrect tax assessments arising from poor record-keeping.

For his part, Ahmed Maigida Olarongbe, the Acting Director-General of KWACCIMA, said the sensitisation programme on the new tax law regime was timely and enlightening.

He added that the engagement reaffirmed the power of collaboration and the importance of proactive dialogue between regulators, professionals, and the business community.

Olarongbe noted that as SMEs remain the backbone of Kwara State’s economy, the insights shared at the seminar had deepened participants’ understanding of the evolving tax framework and strengthened the collective resolve towards compliance and sustainable economic growth.

He appreciated the speakers and resource persons for simplifying complex provisions of the new tax law and for providing practical guidance that the business community can readily apply.

Olarongbe also commended the business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, and stakeholders who attended the event.

“We commend the leadership of KWACCIMA for continually creating platforms that empower the private sector with knowledge and advocacy. Let me emphasise that this seminar is not the end of a conversation but the beginning of a stronger partnership.

“KWACCIMA remains committed to continuous advocacy, capacity building, and constructive engagement with tax authorities and professional bodies to ensure that policies support enterprise growth while promoting transparency and accountability.

“Together, we can build a business environment in Kwara State that is compliant, competitive, and prosperous,” he said.