FIRS targets revenue growth, block leakages as Adedeji resumes as chairman

The new acting chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, on Monday said that the agency is fully committed to empowering Nigeria’s growth and development.

Adedeji who was appointed as the new acting chairman of FIRS by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last Thursday said this in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) after he officially assumed office.

“Our aspiration is audacious – to surpass Africa’s average tax-to-GDP ratio of 16.5% and achieve an impressive 18% within three years. By doing so, we aim to reduce our nation’s reliance on borrowing and ensure financial sustainability,” he said.

Adedeji said the FIRS is determined to align itself with President Bola Tinubu’s Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee for a collaboration that will enable the government to shape a prosperous fiscal landscape that empowers national growth and development.

“As we chart our course ahead, FIRS is committed to placing innovation, technology, and fresh ideas at the forefront of our operations,” Adedeji said.

“This strategic focus will empower us to enhance efficiency, fortify against revenue leaks, and bolster coordination and accountability within our organization.

“Our overarching goal is to nurture voluntary tax compliance by establishing a modern, dependable tax system that garners the trust and admiration of all stakeholders. Through this, we hope to create an environment where taxpayers willingly fulfill their civic duties.”

For those who deviate from their tax obligations, rest assured, Adedeji said that FIRS will enforce its responsibilities judiciously.

He added that the agency will implement a robust enforcement model that effectively deters tax evaders while maintaining fairness and transparency in its processes.

According to him, a fundamental aspect of the agency’s mission is to elucidate to taxpayers why their civic duty matters and that they are committed to simplifying Nigeria’s tax system, making it accessible and comprehensible, thereby facilitating voluntary tax payments and fostering a sense of civic responsibility.

Adedeji said that quality data will be the cornerstone of their operations, enabling them to measure their progress, make informed decisions, and maintain the highest standards of accountability because they recognize that data-driven strategies are essential to their success.

He pledged to maintain an open-door policy, actively engaging with stakeholders to collaboratively construct a tax administration that Nigerians can all take pride in and that together, the citizens will build an institution that serves as a beacon of excellence.

“The principles of integrity, confidentiality, professionalism, and fairness are non-negotiable in our service to the nation. Upholding these values will guide our actions and interactions as we work tirelessly to fulfill our mission.”

Adedeji also extended his heartfelt salutations to his predecessor, Muhammad Nami, whose leadership during his tenure elevated the FIRS standards, paving the way for the agency’s future endeavours.

“On a personal note, I firmly believe in the wisdom encapsulated in the statement that revenue growth is the lifeblood of a nation’s economy, providing the means to fulfill essential duties to its citizens,” Adedeji stated.