The executive members of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) met with the Acting Executive Chairman of the Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS), Mr. Justice Okoye, and his team on Thursday, 12th September 2024 at the IIRS premises.
The NMA Chairman, Dr. Barth Echeta extended his gratitude to Mr. Okoye for his open-door policy and congratulated him on his reappointment as the IIRS Chairman. He acknowledged the Association’s tax liabilities and assured him that all outstanding obligations would be cleared by 20th of September 2024. Furthermore, the NMA leadership emphasised the need for a tax system that is streamlined and user-friendly, ensuring a seamless remittance process for its members.
In his response, the IIRS Chairman reiterated the critical role of taxation in supporting the government’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities. Mr. Okoye stated that taxes, as mandated by law, are non-negotiable, while levies are determined by factors surrounding the business entity. He informed the NMA executives that a new tax management system would be deployed soon, simplifying the tax remittance and administrative processes.
The Chairman further requested a comprehensive list of all NMA members and their respective hospitals/medical centres to enhance collaboration and ensure effective compliance stressing the need for the NMA leadership to assist the IIRS in sensitising its members about the importance of tax compliance.