The president of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Innocent Ohagwa, has emphasized the importance of advancing women's leadership in building a stronger taxation profession. He made this remark at the Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT) retreat, held in Abuja on Saturday. The retreat, themed "Leading Beyond Title: From Position to Purpose and Impact," aimed to challenge tax professionals to redefine leadership. Ohagwa highlighted that leadership is not solely defined by positions or titles, but by the purpose served and the impact created.
Ohagwa further explained that while positions may confer authority, purpose gives leadership direction, and impact establishes its enduring value. He assured members of SWIT that the CITN Governing Council remains committed to supporting the society and providing the necessary institutional backing to fulfil its mandate. The CITN president also stressed that a stronger institute requires the full participation and leadership of women in the taxation profession.
The National Chairperson of SWIT and member of the CITN Governing Council, Dr Caroline Ndubuisi, welcomed guests to the retreat. She emphasized that effective leaders should use their influence to create opportunities, solve problems, and inspire confidence in others. Ndubuisi noted that the most effective leaders do not use their positions merely to command attention but rather to prepare others to succeed.
Ndubuisi highlighted the significant role women in taxation play in advancing professional excellence, financial accountability, institutional development, and national progress. She stressed that their responsibility extends beyond personal advancement, adding that they must continue to mentor young professionals, promote ethical conduct, and support innovation. The SWIT National Chairperson also congratulated two former leaders of the society, Hajiya Kudirat Abdulhamid and Dr Bosede Ikhanoba, who were decorated as the 8th and 9th Life Patrons of SWIT, respectively.
The recognition of Abdulhamid and Ikhanoba as Life Patrons of SWIT was described as a celebration of their contributions and enduring association with the professional body. Ndubuisi acknowledged their dedication and commitment to the society. The decoration ceremony was a significant highlight of the retreat, which brought together members of SWIT and CITN.
Ohagwa's call for advancing women's leadership in the taxation profession aligns with the CITN's goal of building a more inclusive and competent profession. The CITN president's remarks at the SWIT retreat underscore the importance of women's participation and leadership in achieving this goal. The retreat provided a platform for tax professionals to discuss leadership and its impact on the profession.
The SWIT retreat, with its theme "Leading Beyond Title: From Position to Purpose and Impact," aimed to inspire tax professionals to redefine leadership and focus on creating a positive impact. The event provided a valuable opportunity for members to engage with leaders in the profession and discuss ways to advance women's leadership in taxation. Key points from the retreat include the importance of purpose and impact in leadership, the role of women in advancing professional excellence, and the need for mentorship and innovation in the taxation profession.
Key points
- CITN President Innocent Ohagwa emphasizes the importance of advancing women's leadership in building a stronger taxation profession.
- The SWIT retreat, themed "Leading Beyond Title: From Position to Purpose and Impact," aimed to challenge tax professionals to redefine leadership.
- Dr Caroline Ndubuisi highlights the significant role women in taxation play in advancing professional excellence, financial accountability, and national progress.