CITN issues 112 practice licence certificates, harps on professionalism

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), has presented practice licence certificate to 112 new members to enable them practise as Certified Chartered Tax practitioners.
The President of CITN, Dame Olajumoke Simplice, made the disclosure at the Virtual Presentation of Licence to Practice, Seal and Stamps to Qualified Tax Practitioners in Lagos.
She said the exercise was in compliance with the Mandates and Acts of the institute, adding that it was also a mechanism to grow the tax administration system of the country.
According to her, the presentation signifies commitment on the part of the new members to become ambassadors of the profession at all times.
She, therefore, urged the new members to uphold the principles and integrity of the profession in their service to the society.
The president of CITN called on the new members to contribute their quota to the move toward ensuring effective and efficient tax administration system in Nigeria.
“As you join the growing list of our licensed tax practitioners, I urge you to continue to exhibit the highest form of ethical standards and professionalism expected of Licensed Tax Practitioners. Your conduct, to a large extent impacts not just on your practice but on the profession and the Institute.
“In order to guide your practice, Council expects you to refer always to the provisions of the Institute’s charter, Professional Rules and Practice Guidelines and the Statement of Taxation Standards 1-9 as your compass.
“Professionalism remains the driver of developed economies and jurisdictions, the world over. In developed economies, specialisation is the order of the day as its benefits far outweigh any known demerits.
“Today, the tax profession in Nigeria is separate and distinct from any other professions. And our institute is empowered by the CITN Act, Cap C10, Vol. 2, laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to regulate the taxation profession in Nigeria.
“By implication, therefore, the certification of tax practitioners falls within the jurisdiction of CITN, to the exclusion of any other. This mandate enables us to present you with the Institute’s license, seal and stamp which entitle you to file tax returns and offer professional advice to clients for a fee,’’ she said.
Simplice also urged them to strive at all times to enhance the respect, admiration and good name of the Institute with honesty and integrity which members of the Institute are known for.
“With placement of the seal of the institute on all your clients’ returns, the institute’s reputation is being put to test because it authenticates the contents of what you are filling to respective revenue agencies.
“By conducting yourself in a courteous and professional manner, not only will you be establishing your reputation in the taxation community.
“You will also be helping to foster atmosphere of civility in the polity by being a role model for practitioners in other professions,” she added.
The Dame who warned that institute would not fail to sanction any misconduct, advised the new members to continually be updated with new technologies of the profession to remain relevant.
“The Institute will not fail to wield the big stick of discipline where there are reported and established cases of misconduct by members.
“Our Investigating Panel and Disciplinary Tribunal are equipped and active to dispense such matters,” Simplice said.
She assured them of the institute’s commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure smooth operation of the members.
“As global best practices continue to evolve, the Institute is more committed to even setting higher standards to meet these global demands.
“Beyond standards, what all these really mean is that, it is no longer enough for professionals to restrict their knowledge only to their own field.
“ The process of being a well-grounded tax professional requires constant efforts to stay up to date on taxation generally,” Simplice said.
The CITN President further assured members that the Institute’s Council will not falter in its quest towards ensuring the professionalisation of Tax Practice and Administration in Nigeria.
She, however, clarified that contrary to some misrepresentation in some quarters, the Institute’s right as the only recognised Taxation Institute in Nigeria as provided in the CITN Act, Cap C10, Vol. 2, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has not been affected in anyway by any court pronouncement.
“A recent ruling of Hon. Justice S.A. Onigbanjo in suit no LD/3288GCM/19 – CITN vs ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) on 2nd July 2020, did not address the issues in the substantive suit filed by the Institute.
“The Court only addressed the Preliminary Objection of ICAN to the effect that the issues in the suit were similar to those in other suits which had earlier been decided in favour of the CITN and therefore considered the suit as an abuse of court process,” she explained.
L-R: Newly licensed tax practitioner Mrs Risikat Olumegbon, Mr Adefisayo Awogbade (Registrar/Chief Executive), Dame Gladys Olajumoke Simplice(President /Chairman of Council) at the Practice License Ceremony.