The Tax Essentials Learning Program (T.E.L.P), on Tuesday, graduated its first cohort of apprentices in Lagos, describing the inaugural ceremony as a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards enhanced tax literacy and economic empowerment.
According to a statement from the initiative, five dedicated apprentices, namely: Jude Atalobhor, Egbewale Jesujuwon Samuel, Iwuoha Bernard Ezenwa, Adeniji Mariam, and Oladele Oyekanmi, successfully completed the program, which aims to transform the landscape of tax knowledge in Nigeria.
“With Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio currently at a mere 9.2%, significantly lower than the 15% average for developing nations, the T.E.L.P initiative is crucial for fostering a new generation of socially-conscious tax professionals, the statement said, adding that “these graduates are expected to play a pivotal role in increasing government revenue and promoting transparency and accountability within the tax system. By empowering citizens with critical tax knowledge, T.E.L.P not only strengthens Nigeria’s economy but also positions it for success in the global market.”
Speaking on the importance of the program, the statement added that by educating citizens about tax compliance, the program aims to increase government revenue significantly.
“The initiative seeks to develop a new industry of innovative tax accountants who prioritize ethical practices,” noting that it also promotes transparency and accountability by encouraging responsible engagement between citizens and the government, fostering a culture of accountability.
Continuing, the statement credited Sheneya Wilson, the founder and CEO of Fola Financial LLC, for being instrumental in bringing T.E.L.P to Nigeria, in collaboration with Temitope Akinsemoyin of Stanchion TM Consults NG.
It added that the project was endorsed by the Office of the SSA to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation., saying, “As Nigeria faces various economic challenges, initiatives like T.E.L.P offer hope for a more fiscally responsible future. The commitment to fostering economic enrichment and financial education positions T.E.L.P as a vital resource for the nation’s development.”
This article was originally published in Tribune Online Nigeria