By Joke Kujenya
EFFORTS TO foster credible, fact-based public engagement on Nigeria’s ongoing tax reforms have received a major boost as the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee introduced the Excellence in Tax Reform Reporting Award.
Dubbed a new initiative that aims to recognise and reward journalists and digital influencers whose reporting demonstrates accuracy, balance, and a deep understanding of the nation’s tax reform agenda.
Announcing the programme, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, described the award as a strategic step to strengthen public trust through responsible media engagement.
Oyedele stated that the media remains a key partner in shaping national narratives, countering misinformation, and ensuring that reform conversations remain constructive and inclusive.
“The media is central to shaping narratives and building public trust. By equipping and rewarding journalists and influencers, we aim to ensure that the tax reform conversation is constructive, inclusive, and anchored in truth.
“This is how we build public confidence in reforms designed to secure our nation’s future,” Oyedele said.
According to the Committee, the Excellence in Tax Reform Reporting Award will serve as a platform to celebrate exemplary reporting that informs, educates, and promotes understanding among citizens.
The initiative is expected to enhance the visibility of reform issues while inspiring professionals across media sectors to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and integrity.
The award is open to Nigerian journalists working in print, broadcast, and online platforms, as well as digital influencers, bloggers, and podcasters.
Eligible entries must be published or broadcast between 1 July and 31 December 2025.
Oloyede said accepted languages include English, Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, with English translations required for entries submitted in local languages.
He notes that for video and podcast submissions, the Committee has specified a duration limit of 10 minutes.
He adds that works must focus on explaining, analysing, or reporting on Nigeria’s tax reform process, including policies, implementation, and impact.
In outlining the award structure, the Committee also disclosed that winners will receive substantial cash prizes alongside opportunities for capacity development.
▪️The first prize carries N10 million.
▪️The second prize N5 million, and
▪️The third prize N3 million.
In addition, each of the Top 20 finalists will receive a N1 million consolation award and commemorative plaques, the Committee informed.
Oloyede also noted that selected winners may also benefit from professional gadgets and training fellowships designed to enhance their journalistic practice.
Entries will be evaluated by an independent panel of assessors based on five key criteria: accuracy and technical correctness, balance and fairness, clarity and accessibility, public engagement and reach, and creativity and innovation.
These parameters are designed to ensure that submitted works reflect the values of professionalism and accountability that underpin the reform initiative.
According to the statement, winners will be announced at a high-profile awards gala scheduled to hold either in Lagos or Abuja.
The ceremony is expected to attract national attention and will be broadcast live on major television stations, with digital livestreams available on YouTube and X Spaces.
Applications for the award will also open before the end of the year through the official portal, fiscalreforms.ng.
Interested participants are encouraged to follow updates and announcements using the hashtag #ExcellenceInTaxReporting on social media platforms.
For enquiries, the Committee directed interested applicants to contact its secretariat via email at enquiries@fiscalreforms.ng
or through WhatsApp on 08109753151.
The Committee emphasised that this initiative aligns with its broader mandate to promote fiscal transparency, deepen public understanding, and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s reform journey.
Through the Excellence in Tax Reform Reporting Award, the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee seeks to create a culture of informed reporting that reflects truth, integrity, and national interest.
