The Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) team led by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun paid a visit to Enugu State Government last Thursday. The team was welcomed by the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Rt Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. In attendance were the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, Chairman of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe (Amb) Lawrence Agubuzo, Enugu State Commissioners and several stakeholders.

According to the Minister of Finance, if we are serious about building a nation where current & future generations can build lasting development & prosperity, we must embrace our tax obligations.

"By regularly paying taxes, we will avoid the pain that the recent oil price collapse, and the consequent recession inflicted on Nigerians. We will avoid boom-and-bust cycles and join those nations that have predictable revenues and see progressive improvements in citizens' lives," she further stated. She encouraged everyone to embrace VAIDS and voluntarily declare their assets and income before the scheme ends.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi appreciated the Federal ministry of Finance for bringing the VAIDS initiative to Enugu State and highlighted some of the remarkable feats that have been achieved through taxes. He encouraged all tax payers in Enugu to continue the good work in developing the state.

The Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme is a time-limited opportunity for taxpayers who are in default with their Nigerian tax liabilities to pay the tax due from them relating to previous tax periods and declare all previously undisclosed assets and income. This enables them to regularise their transactions and get Nigerian tax clearance for all the relevant years without fear of criminal prosecution and with the benefit of waiver on penalty charges.