Mrs Ifueko Omoigui Applauds Children’s Role in Tax Advocacy at Launch of New Civic Education Book

Published By Jerry Adesewo On May 31, 2025

Mrs Ifueko Omoigui Applauds Children’s Role in Tax Advocacy at Launch of New Civic Education Book

Patience Bitrus

Former Chairperson of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, has commended the Federal Inland Revenue Service and its partners for launching a groundbreaking civic education book, “Taxation: Essential Knowledge for Nigerian Children”, describing it as a vital tool in shaping future generations of informed, responsible citizens.

Speaking at the public presentation held at Merit House, Maitama, Abuja, Mrs. Omoigui praised the initiative’s child-centered approach to tax education and its creative use of children not only as learners, but also as advocates and ambassadors of accountability.

“This book does more than explain taxation—it inspires young Nigerians to ask the right questions,” she said. “What moved me the most today was not just the book, but how children brought it to life—with voice, presence, and purpose.”

The highlight of the day was a powerful spoken word performance titled “The Tax Tree”, presented by a group of schoolchildren, from Unique The mall International School, Kubwa Abuja, represented by (Eyidesire Jerry-Adesewo and…..).

With bold lines and evocative metaphors, the piece interrogated the purpose of taxation in everyday life while also expressing a hopeful vision of collective civic responsibility. Excerpt from “The Tax Tree”:

“They say taxes build the nation—

But the chalk in my school is borrowed,

The roads crack like broken promises,

And the clinic has more cobwebs than medicine…”

The performance struck a chord with attendees, who gave the children a standing ovation. Combining poetry, drama, and emotion, the children used the stage to give voice to millions of Nigerians who wonder whether taxes truly translate into development.

“Let my Naira mean something,” one young performer declared, eyes lifted to the audience. “Let my father’s sweat pave roads that do not wash away.”

Mrs. Omoigui, visibly moved, invited the young lads, Eyidesire Jerry-Adesewo and Seth Over to the stage, described the piece as “a civic call-to-action,” adding that it reflects the very heart of what responsible taxation should be—transparent, impactful, and people-centered.

“When children ask, ‘Where are the books for my sister’s class?’ or ‘Where is the hospital Mama talks about?’—we as leaders, as citizens, must answer, not deflect,” she said.

She encouraged government agencies, especially state and local tax authorities, to replicate this model of youth-centered civic engagement across Nigeria.

The book, a 60-page illustrated guide on taxation and citizenship, was produced by Sprezzatura Publishing Ltd, in partnership with the FIRS. Over 60,000 copies have been printed for distribution to schools, libraries, and civic centers nationwide.

As the curtains closed, the message left in the hearts of attendees was unmistakable: When we teach children not just to pay, but to understand—and question—taxation, we plant the seed of civic accountability that could grow into a stronger Nigeria.

Mrs Ifueko Omoigui Applauds Children’s Role in Tax Advocacy at Launch of New Civic Education Book