FCT-IRS surpasses 2024 target, threatens to sanction tax defaulters

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has threatened serious sanctions against tax defaulters in the territory, just as it disclosed that its revenue target for 2024 has been met.

Executive Chairman of the agency, Michael Ango, who disclosed this while addressing journalists at a tax sensitization event in Abuja on Thursday, however, warned that non-compliance with tax obligations would attract strict penalties, including fines and possible prosecution.
It said it collected ₦262 billion against the projected ₦250 billion. The FCT-IRS said it recorded ₦43.8 billion in revenue for January 2025.

The agency threatened that “Employers who failed to file their annual returns by the January 31 deadline face a minimum fine of ₦500,000, with potential criminal prosecution for recalcitrant offenders. Those who refuse to pay are taking away our roads, our hospitals, and our schools. It is unfair to those who comply,” Ango stated.

He reminded residents that individual annual income tax returns must be filed by March 1, 2025. While the agency aims to improve voluntary compliance through continuous sensitization efforts, it will not hesitate to impose sanctions where necessary.

Ango, who listed the unique financial responsibilities of the FCT, noted that as both a federal and subnational entity, it requires substantial revenue to sustain its growing infrastructure needs. He commended the Honorable Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development but stressed that funding these projects extends beyond federal allocations.

“The Minister cannot achieve this with his personal funds or federal subvention alone. This is where we, the FCT-IRS, come in. It is our responsibility to collect revenue for the benefit of all residents,” he stated.

According to Ango, the administration’s focus on rehabilitating roads, schools, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure underscores the importance of taxation. He urged residents to see tax payment as their direct contribution to transforming Abuja into a globally competitive city.

“The Abuja that we envisage is a city that can stand alongside any major capital in the world. The Minister has set that as his vision, and we believe it is achievable,” he said.

To boost compliance, the FCT-IRS said it is intensifying direct engagements with residents through roadshows, market visits, and the establishment of kiosk offices in major plazas and area councils. The agency is also strengthening partnerships with informal sector groups to ensure wider tax coverage.

Ango revealed that enforcement efforts will extend to underutilized tax areas, particularly the entertainment sector, where compliance among hotels, restaurants, and event centers has been inconsistent.

“We have been engaging stakeholders in the hospitality sector, and we will soon reach a resolution. However, those who continue to default will face enforcement actions in line with the law,” he warned.

The FCT-IRS Chairman reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and service delivery. He called on all stakeholders, including the media, to support the drive for increased tax compliance.

“By Abuja’s 50th anniversary in 2026, the Minister wants to unveil a city that will amaze residents and visitors alike. That vision is achievable, but only with your contributions—your taxes, revenues, and fees,” Ango stated.

He also assured taxpayers of accountability in fund utilization, emphasizing that every kobo collected is channeled toward improving infrastructure and public services.

“As we collect these revenues, we are committed to ensuring that residents feel the impact through better roads, reliable water supply, quality healthcare, and enhanced security,” he added.

While the agency prioritizes voluntary compliance, Ango reiterated that enforcement remains a legal obligation. “We believe in voluntary compliance as the best approach, but where necessary, we will enforce the law. We hope for a future where we achieve 100% compliance, where every resident can proudly say they contributed to the building of Abuja,” he concluded.

With its firm stance on revenue collection and compliance, the FCT-IRS is positioning Abuja for sustainable growth, ensuring that every resident and business plays their part in building a world-class capital city.