Senator Uba Sani
@topfans Senator Shehu Sani Aysha Ahmad Mohammad Ali Garba GoraKADUNA LEADS CONVERSATION ON GENDER-RESPONSIVE BUDGETING, TAX REFORM.
The Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service team participated in a one-day high-level policy dialogue on gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) and taxation in Kaduna State, organized by the Tax Justice & Governance Platform (TJGP) with support from the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre and Christian Aid Nigeria.
The event featured active stakeholder engagement in identifying policy gaps, developing advocacy messages, and validating a roadmap to align tax reforms with gender-responsive principles, concluding with commitments to promote inclusive, transparent, and equitable fiscal governance in the state.
In his keynote, Idris Suleiman of the State Planning and Budget Commission highlighted Kaduna’s strides in inclusive governance, citing the establishment of data-driven institutions like the Bureau of Statistics and KADRIMA. He emphasized the importance of reliable demographic data—including the near-equal gender distribution among the state’s estimated 11 million residents—in guiding equitable budget priorities and promoting financial inclusion for marginalized groups.
Speaking on behalf of KADIRS,, Mr. Richard Bature underscored the agency’s shift from aggressive tax enforcement to a more transparent, people-centered approach. He noted that past policy dialogues have influenced KADIRS’ current practices, reinforcing the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement to improve public finance management and taxpayer relations.
Mr. Bature also highlighted several citizen-focused initiatives introduced under the leadership of KADIRS Executive Chairman, Comrade Jerry Adams , including the establishment of a grievance redress system, tax clinics, and the weekly “Tax Thursdays” initiative—designed to enhance accessibility, resolve complaints, and foster ongoing dialogue with taxpayers.
TJ&GP Coordinator Simeon Olatunde stressed the need to mainstream gender into budgeting and taxation, pointing to recent research exposing systemic barriers for women in the informal sector. He advocated for inclusive frameworks that consider the needs of all demographics, including the elderly and vulnerable, while ensuring that tax revenues are allocated fairly and effectively.
The event also recognized Kaduna's growing reputation as a leader in progressive fiscal governance. Stakeholders agreed that while the state’s approach offers a model for others, it also carries the responsibility to maintain and deepen reforms. They called for sustained reflection and innovation as Kaduna aligns with the new national tax legislation.
Signed:
Zakari Jamilu Muhammad.
Head: Corporate Communications.
8th August, 2025.
@ubasanius @jerryadams225