The Edo State Government has approved a tax relief measure for private schools and authorized the registration of students for key examinations following fruitful discussions with school proprietors.
The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, led a high-level delegation on Monday, including representatives from the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), to engage with the Coalition of Associations of Private School Owners (CAPS). The meeting was a follow-up to earlier consultations where stakeholders raised alarm over proposed increases in taxation.
During the meeting, the EIRS, represented by Hon. Akhimen Patrick Idiake, Executive Director of Income Taxes, announced a revised flat tax rate of 10% for private schools—down from a previously proposed rate that had triggered concern within the education sector.
This revision comes with immediate effect, enabling private institutions to resume registration for the Common Entrance and Junior WAEC Examinations, which had been on hold.
Dr. Iyamu described the move as a demonstration of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s inclusive leadership and the administration’s openness to dialogue. He assured education stakeholders of the government’s commitment to creating a stable and growth-driven learning environment, while also maintaining vigilance against all forms of unofficial levies.
Representatives of CAPS expressed deep appreciation to Governor Okpebholo and the agencies involved, stating that the outcome is a much-needed relief for many private institutions still recovering from economic strain. They also pledged to ensure transparent and timely tax remittance in support of the government’s development efforts.
This development is being hailed as a model for public-private partnership in policy implementation and a victory for inclusive governance in Edo State.
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