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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing tax literacy among Nigerian business owners, farmers, and entrepreneurs by spotlighting tax incentives tailored to support business growth and economic development.
This assurance was given by FIRS Chairman, Mr. Zacch Adedeji, during the 12th Benue National Trade Fair held at IBB Square, Makurdi. Represented by Mrs. Lovette Onanuga, Director of Taxpayer Services, Adedeji emphasized the agency’s intent to demystify tax processes and provide education on available regulatory compliance benefits.
He highlighted a range of regulatory technology solutions, including pioneer status incentives and sector-specific tax reliefs—especially for agriculture-based investments and mining enterprises. “These incentives are crucial in advancing industrialisation and commercialisation efforts across Nigeria’s key sectors,” he said.
The theme of this year’s fair, “Industrialisation and Commercialisation of Benue Agriculture and Solid Minerals as Panacea for Growth,” aligns with FIRS’ broader mission to support economic development through effective tax administration and regulatory compliance.
Adedeji reiterated that taxation, when properly managed, serves as a vital tool for national development. “Taxes fuel the government’s capacity to invest in infrastructure, enhance regulatory frameworks, and fund services that support agriculture, trade, and enterprise development,” he noted.
Addressing perceptions around taxation, he acknowledged that many micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) still see tax as a financial burden. In response, FIRS has launched a Tax Services Department campaign titled “Breaking Down Tax Incentives and Reliefs”, aimed at reframing tax as a tool for business opportunity rather than obligation.
Business owners were encouraged to engage directly with FIRS representatives at the fair or utilize the *829# self-service USSD code for quick access to tax clearance, registration, and incentives—no internet required.
Mrs. Rose Ugoh, FIRS Tax Controller and Emerging Tax Officer, added that the agency has rolled out strategic initiatives, including the TaxPro Max platform, which simplifies online tax filing and compliance management for small businesses. She also pointed to the Taxpayers Education Programme, a nationwide effort delivering workshops and compliance training to promote financial inclusion and formalise the informal economy.
“These efforts underscore FIRS’ drive toward compliance automation, risk assessment, and voluntary tax participation—all of which are integral to financial crime prevention and sustainable national development,” Ugoh said.
Mr. Mhir Iyenge, President of the Benue Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (BECCIMA), appreciated FIRS’ participation despite recent security challenges in parts of Benue, which had previously delayed the trade fair.
By strengthening its outreach and regulatory intelligence strategies, FIRS continues to promote a culture of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) while empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs to thrive in a more structured and tax-friendly environment.
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