The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has urged for inclusion of Nigerian youths in governance and policy making, saying their voices are critical to national development.
The BSN President and General Secretary, Bishop Timothy Banwo and Pastor Samuel Sanusi respectively made the call on Thursday at the 14th Annual NYSC Essay Writing Competition and National Symposium held in Ibadan.
Banwo stated that the topic of the essay competition, “Tax Reform and Economic Growth in Nigeria: Evaluating the Path to Sustainable Development and Prosperity” was apt.
He said that the event was to engage the youths such that they would be interested and participate in the development of Nigeria.
Banwo underscored the importance of youth involvement in governance for a robust future for the country.
Also, Sanusi said the NYSC Essay competition, instituted 14 years ago, was designed to give the younger generation a platform to contribute ideas on issues shaping the country’s future.
“This year’s theme on tax reforms is timely. Our youths must have a say in governance and share opinions that government can take a clue from,”he said.
The BSN secretary urged citizens to perform their civic responsibility by paying taxes, and advised government to rebuild public trust by ensuring transparency in the use of revenue generated.
“Trust in government has been an issue, but with the new tax reforms and renewed commitment from leaders, there is hope.
“Citizens should also do their part and hold government accountable,”Sanusi said.
Also speaking, President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Mr Innocent Ohagwa, commended the society for engaging youths on governance through the competition.
Ohagwa, represented by Mr Tejumola Kolawole, Senior Manager TAX, FIRS, said that young Nigerians should play a decisive role in translating tax reforms into real economic prosperity for the nation.
According to him, recent enactments, such as the Nigeria Tax Act 2025, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act 2025, Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act 2025 mark a historic juncture for the country.
“The efficiency of revenue mobilisation, the equity of our tax system, and the quality of public accountability will determine whether we achieve sustainable growth and inclusive prosperity,” he said.
Ohagwa added that involving corps members through the essay competition was timely, stressing that Nigerian youths would play a central role in translating reforms into real economic progress.
The out of six finalists, Samuel Akande emerged the winner of the essay competition.
