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The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), formerly known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has said the recently implemented tax reforms will promote sustainable development and accelerate Nigeria’s economic growth.
Adedeji made this known during a national television interview, where he addressed concerns surrounding the new tax laws that took effect last week. According to him, while tax reforms often generate political debate, the primary objective of the changes is to strengthen the economy and build credible institutions capable of supporting long-term national development.
He dismissed fears that the tax reforms could be used by the Federal Government to target political opponents or marginalise individuals based on their political affiliations. Adedeji stressed that the reforms were guided strictly by national interest and institutional accountability.
Responding to concerns about selective enforcement and political misuse of tax compliance records, the NRS chairman said such fears were misplaced. He emphasised that transparency, due process, and strong governance frameworks are central to the administration’s tax reform agenda.
“We need to commend the courage of Mr. President, that even though there is an election coming, he is courageous enough to continue on this path of statesmanship, not that of politicians,” Adedeji said.
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He noted that it would have been politically convenient for the government to delay major fiscal reforms ahead of an election cycle, but the President chose to prioritise economic stability and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal foundation.
According to Adedeji, the tax reform agenda is focused on addressing structural weaknesses, improving fairness, and creating a simplified and predictable tax environment that encourages voluntary compliance rather than coercion.
He acknowledged that scepticism around the reforms stems partly from Nigeria’s historical experiences with public institutions. However, he maintained that the new framework is designed to reduce discretionary powers in tax administration and ensure that processes are governed strictly by law.
Adedeji said the NRS is working to institutionalise systems that promote automation, accountability, and transparency, thereby insulating tax administration from political interference.
He added that the reforms emphasise building trust between taxpayers and the government, noting that confidence grows when citizens see a clear link between taxes paid and improvements in public services. According to him, the ongoing implementation will occur in structured phases, with the ultimate goal of creating a tax environment that supports investment, protects vulnerable groups, and strengthens confidence in public administration.
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