Jigawa Tax Stakeholders Demand Action Against Multiple Taxation Issues

Tax stakeholders in Jigawa State are raising concerns about multiple taxation and the treatment of taxpayers by tax officials. They are asking for more public education on taxpayers’ rights and responsibilities to improve the state’s tax system.

This call to action came after a five-day pilot program focused on taxpayer complaints, held from October 5 to 9, 2026, at M-TOWN Hotel in Dutse. Participants urged the Jigawa State Internal Revenue Service (JIRS) to create better ways for taxpayers to voice their complaints and resolve issues.

The stakeholders emphasized that educating the public about tax obligations and available complaint options is crucial for improving compliance with the 2025 Tax Reform Acts. They also called for training for tax officials and civil society organizations to enhance their ability to handle complaints effectively.

Furthermore, the stakeholders highlighted the need for the grievance process to be accessible to women, people with disabilities, small businesses, and informal workers who may struggle to get tax information. They recommended regular meetings between JIRS, civil society groups, business organizations, and community leaders to address ongoing issues and improve services.

The pilot program was organized by the International Budget Partnership (IBP) Nigeria and funded by UK International Development. It aimed to protect taxpayers’ rights and improve accountability in tax administration.

During the program, participants identified several challenges, including double taxation, harassment by tax officials, and a lack of tax education. They also noted that many rural taxpayers face difficulties in accessing support.

To tackle these problems, the stakeholders called for JIRS to establish clear procedures for handling complaints and to appoint specific officers to manage the grievance process. They want to ensure that complaints are acknowledged promptly and resolved in a transparent manner.

Overall, the stakeholders believe that a strong grievance redress system will help reduce disputes, encourage voluntary tax compliance, and build trust between taxpayers and tax authorities. They acknowledged the support of various organizations and urged continued collaboration to enhance taxpayer services.