Adedeji Calls for Teamwork on New Tax Laws; Oyedele Hails Economic Progress

The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has underscored the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders, including taxpayers, subnational governments, and private sector institutions—in ensuring the smooth and effective implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws.

Speaking on Monday at a special engagement session for directors of the tax agency, organised by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee and held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Adedeji stated that the agency, which is in the process of transitioning to the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), cannot achieve its objectives in isolation.

According to a statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, Adedeji described collaboration as “crucial to a hitch-free rollout” of the new tax regime. He urged all stakeholders across government, private sector, and institutions to work hand-in-hand to ensure that the reforms deliver the intended outcomes for the nation.

“Our collective posture should be one of readiness to listen, adapt, and deliver,” Adedeji said. “A key pillar of the reforms is capacity building. Modern tax administration—from digitalisation to data-driven compliance, cross-border taxation, and engagement with specialised industries, requires new skills and innovative approaches.

“As directors, you will lead the charge in equipping our officers with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to implement the law effectively, while also providing support to taxpayers. We will continue to invest in training, technology, and systems that enhance efficiency, reduce compliance costs, and strengthen trust in the tax system,” he added.

The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, in his opening remarks, also highlighted Nigeria’s improving economic landscape. He stated that the country’s economy is no longer in the challenging position it once was, crediting the Tinubu-led administration with stabilising key economic indicators.

Oyedele pointed out that the country’s balance of trade has shifted from a deficit to a surplus since May 2023. He also noted that the government has stopped printing money to meet domestic needs, cleared unmet foreign exchange backlogs, and increased external reserves to $23 billion within just two years.

“The gains of these reforms are already yielding positive macroeconomic results,” Oyedele said. “However, it is imperative that these improvements translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians through poverty reduction, job creation, and enhanced social development.”

Both Adedeji and Oyedele emphasized that the success of Nigeria’s new tax laws will depend heavily on the joint effort of all stakeholders. They called on directors and staff of FIRS to embrace innovation, transparency, and accountability as the agency positions itself as a key partner in national development.

The session concluded with a renewed commitment to leveraging modern technology, continuous capacity building, and collaborative engagement to strengthen compliance, boost revenue generation, and support Nigeria’s ongoing economic transformation.