The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s ongoing tax reforms aim to broaden the taxpayer base rather than introduce new taxes. He emphasized that increasing the number of compliant taxpayers is crucial for boosting revenue and driving national development.
Dr. Adedeji’s remarks were delivered on Tuesday at the Second Edition of the Annual National Dialogue, hosted by Nigeria Politics Online (NPO), with the theme “Revenue Generation, Infrastructure Progress: Options in a Challenged Economy.” Representing him at the event was Dr. Umar Idris Ahmed, Director of Intergovernmental Relations at FIRS.
A Vision for Inclusive Tax Administration
“We don’t need new taxes; what we need is new taxpayers,” Dr. Adedeji stated. He underscored the importance of simplifying tax processes to encourage compliance and enhance accessibility. “We want to simplify tax payments with the hope of maximizing revenue… Our administration is committed to fair tax administration, responsive and accessible services to optimize revenue for national development.”
Convenience at the Core of Tax Reforms
Dr. Adedeji also highlighted the ongoing efforts to make tax payments more convenient and accessible for individuals and businesses. He reiterated FIRS’s dedication to creating an efficient tax system that fosters trust and collaboration between taxpayers and the government.
Event Highlights
The dialogue served as a platform for stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges, particularly in the areas of revenue generation and infrastructure development. The FIRS chairman’s call for a broader taxpayer base aligns with the government’s broader strategy to enhance fiscal sustainability without overburdening citizens with additional taxes.
This approach reflects a commitment to equitable taxation and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth, ensuring that the benefits of development are shared across all sectors of the society.
Comments