GDSS Gaa-Akanbi wins grand prize in KWIRS Tax Quiz Competition
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
Government Day Secondary School (GDSS) Gaa-Akanbi emerged victorious in the 2024 Kwara Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) Tax Quiz Club Competition, winning the N2.5 million grand prize at the event held in Ilorin on Thursday.
Govt. Secondary School Lafiagi claimed second place with a prize of N1.5 million, while Eucharistic Heart of Jesus Model College, Ilorin, secured the third prize of N1 million.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who attended the event, emphasized his administration’s commitment to fostering financial literacy among young people. He highlighted the significance of taxation awareness for enhancing the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and promoting responsible citizenship across Nigeria.
“Financial literacy is essential for the growth and development of our state and nation,” AbdulRazaq said. “This event serves not just as a competition but as an educational platform to inform young minds about taxation and financial management.”
The governor also commended the efforts of KWIRS, teachers, and parents in supporting the students’ learning journey. “I congratulate all participants and consider each of you a winner. Continue your pursuit of knowledge, and I wish you success,” he added.
Mrs. Shade Omoniyi, Executive Chairman of KWIRS, emphasized the importance of taxation in her opening address, noting that the competition saw participation from 154 schools—73 public and 81 private. She praised the use of Computer-Based Tests (CBT) in the preliminary rounds, which made the process seamless for participants.
Expressing gratitude for Governor AbdulRazaq’s dedication to enhancing education in Kwara State, Omoniyi encouraged students to value knowledge beyond the competition’s outcome.
Mrs. Funmilola Oguntubi, the competition’s convener, explained that the competition’s portal opened in April, allowing time for widespread engagement. She acknowledged past participants and wished this year’s contestants success.
Kwara State Commissioner for Education, Saadatu Modibbo-Kawu, remarked that the event would deepen students’ understanding of tax payments and their role in economic development. “I urge you to apply what you’ve learned here today to build a brighter future for yourselves and contribute to society,” she said.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Chief of Staff to the Kwara Governor, Alh. Abdulqadir Maye, and Fatima Arinola Lawal, Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, among others.
