Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to delivering far-reaching tax reforms aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fiscal landscape.
Speaking at the Domestic Investors Summit in Abuja, Dr. Adedeji addressed a cross-section of stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. He emphasized that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains fully focused on building a more transparent, fair, and efficient tax system that supports investment and inclusive growth.
According to a statement issued by his Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media, Arabinrin Aderonke, the FIRS Chairman received commendations from participants for his clear, practical, and goal-oriented communication of ongoing tax reforms.
Adedeji noted that Nigeria’s tax policy must evolve to meet today’s economic realities, reduce over-reliance on oil revenue, and expand the tax net without overburdening citizens or businesses. He stressed that reforming the tax administration framework is not just a technical necessity but a moral obligation to ensure fairness, equity, and shared prosperity.
“We are not just talking about collecting more taxes,” he said. “We are focused on creating a system that promotes voluntary compliance, reduces leakages, and builds trust between taxpayers and government.”
The FIRS boss explained that the reform agenda covers everything from simplifying tax laws to digitizing payment systems and improving taxpayer education. He added that the goal is to make compliance easier, reduce cost of collection, and eliminate bottlenecks that discourage investment.
He highlighted key milestones already achieved, including improved data integration, better collaboration with state revenue agencies, and streamlined tax processes. These, he said, are laying the groundwork for a more dynamic and investor-friendly tax environment.
Adedeji also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement in driving the success of the reforms. He said no reform can succeed without the full participation of those who pay, administer, and benefit from taxes.
“Tax reform is a shared responsibility,” he said. “We must work together to create a system that works for everyone—government, businesses, and citizens.”
Investors and business leaders present at the summit welcomed the ongoing reforms, describing them as timely and necessary. Several attendees noted that Adedeji’s approach brings a refreshing clarity to fiscal policy discussions and helps build confidence among economic actors.
With Nigeria aiming to raise non-oil revenue and unlock private sector growth, experts say these reforms are critical. They argue that a simplified, transparent, and predictable tax system is essential for attracting long-term domestic and foreign investment.
As Dr. Adedeji continues to push for policy innovation within the FIRS, stakeholders agree that the direction is promising. His clear vision, grounded in inclusion and transparency, signals a turning point for tax administration in Nigeria.
The summit closed with renewed optimism among investors, many of whom now see tax reform not as a burden but as a path to national prosperity.
