New Tax System Nigeria: Church leader Samuel Akintobi urges the Federal Government to manage tax revenues transparently for citizens’ welfare

The Spiritual Head of the Cherubim and Seraphim Agbojesu Conference Worldwide, Samuel Akintobi, has urged the Federal Government to ensure that revenues generated from Nigeria’s new tax system are transparently and responsibly utilised for the benefit of ordinary citizens.

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Akintobi made the call on Saturday during the church’s Annual General Conference held in Iseyin, Oyo State, where he addressed delegates on national economic issues and the role of leadership in promoting social justice.

The cleric said accountability in the management of tax proceeds would help ease public concerns surrounding the recently introduced tax reforms, which came into effect on January 1, 2026.

The reforms have attracted criticism from various quarters, with critics warning that they could impose additional hardship on Nigerians already facing economic pressures.

According to Akintobi, while taxation is necessary for national development, its success depends largely on transparency and visible impact on people’s lives.

“As a church, we recognise the need for a strong revenue base to move our nation forward, but taxation must be transparent and purposeful,” he said. “

The people need to see that every naira collected in tax translates into projects and services that lift the common man out of hardship.”

He further cautioned that tax revenue should not be treated merely as a means of increasing government income, but as a responsibility tied to public trust.

“The government must not see tax collections as an end in themselves but as a sacred trust. Leadership must prove to the people that these funds are not just filling coffers, but are being used to improve the overall welfare of citizens,” Akintobi added.

Nigeria’s new tax system has sparked calls from some groups for a review or suspension of certain provisions, amid fears that poor management of revenues could worsen living conditions if not properly handled.

Also speaking at the conference, the chairman of the Cherubim and Seraphim Agbojesu Conference Worldwide, Hezekiah Adeleke, said the creation of a comprehensive database of church members was one of the key outcomes of the gathering.

He explained that the theme of the conference, “Advancing Steadfastly in the Lord” (Philippians 3:13–14), shaped deliberations and guided decisions aimed at strengthening the church’s administrative structure.

Adeleke also commended the Supreme Head of the church for his support and guidance, describing his contributions as vital to the success of the conference.

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The event concluded with the inauguration of a new National Executive Council, which will be led by Adeleke, marking a new phase in the church’s organisational development.