From Taiye Joseph Ilorin
The Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT), Kwara Chapter, has taken its advocacy for tax knowledge and compliance to secondary schools in the state, organising a debate to deepen students’ understanding of taxation and economic policies.
The competition, held in Ilorin, served as the North Central edition of the National Debate Competition and featured six public secondary schools. The 2025 debate topic was “Increase in Value Added Tax Rate is Beneficial to the Economy.”
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Oluwakemi Obakemi, SWIT State Coordinator, said the initiative aimed to promote tax awareness and financial literacy among students, especially in light of the proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), from 7.5% to 10%.
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“It becomes imperative to add our thoughts to the ongoing deliberations on the proposed VAT increment through the students, due to public outcry,” Obakemi stated.
“We want young minds to critically engage with this issue and educate the public on the pros and cons. Their insights will be compiled and submitted to the Tax Reform Committee before a final decision is made.”
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Prof. Khadijat Yahaya, emphasised the importance of engaging young scholars in discussions on taxation, economic growth, and national development.
Similarly, Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Saadat Modibbo-Kawu, commended SWIT for aligning with the government’s vision for women and girls. Represented by Mr. Taye Odedeji, she assured that the administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that empower students with financial knowledge.
The Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Taxation in Nigeria (CITN), Ilorin and District Society, Dr. Abdulhakeem Shuaib, praised SWIT for instilling financial discipline in students from an early age.
At the end of the competition, Government Girls Day Secondary School, Oke Sunnah, emerged winners with 64.5%, followed by Queen Elizabeth Secondary School (59.0%) and Cherubim and Seraphim College (57.7%).
Muminat Abdulganiyu (Government Girls Day Secondary School, Oke Sunnah) and Hamdalat Agboola (Queen Elizabeth Secondary School) will represent the North Central Zone at the Grand Finale on February 20.
