Onome Amuge
The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has launched a new award scheme to encourage higher standards of journalism on the country’s ongoing tax reform, in a move it says will help strengthen public trust in economic policy.
The Excellence in Tax Reform Reporting Award will recognise journalists and digital influencers whose work explains and analyses tax reforms with balance, accuracy and public impact. The initiative, the first of its kind, comes as the federal government seeks to broaden its tax base without undermining growth prospects.
Taiwo Oyedele, chair of the presidential committee, said the media had a central role in shaping narratives and countering misinformation around fiscal policy. “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,” he said.
The contest is open to Nigerian journalists across print, broadcast and digital platforms, as well as bloggers, podcasters and social media figures. Eligible submissions published or broadcast between July and December 2025 in English, Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba, must provide accessible reporting on aspects of the tax reform agenda.
Prizes include N10 million for the top entry, N5 million for second place, and N3 million for third, with consolation awards of N1 million each for 20 additional finalists. Winners may also receive training fellowships and digital equipment.
According to the committee, entries will be judged on technical accuracy, fairness, clarity, public engagement and creativity. An awards gala is planned for Lagos or Abuja, with organisers considering a live broadcast and online streaming.
Applications will open later this year via fiscalreforms.ng, with updates posted under the hashtag #ExcellenceInTaxReporting.
