FIRS Media Aide Highlights Impact of Federal Government’s Tax Reforms
Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has emphasized that the federal government’s tax reform initiatives are helping to eliminate inefficiencies in Nigeria’s economy and setting the stage for sustainable growth.
Atoyebi explained that upon assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inherited a deeply flawed tax system marked by poor compliance, limited coverage, and outdated structures. “Our tax framework had been struggling for years with inefficiency and low transparency,” she noted.
She also pointed out systemic issues such as weak coordination between federal and state tax authorities and the absence of a modernized tax framework needed to support economic development.
Recognizing these challenges, President Tinubu made a strategic decision to appoint Dr. Zacch Adedeji as Executive Chairman of FIRS, a move Atoyebi described as pivotal in steering the administration’s economic reform agenda. “Dr. Zacch has made tax reform a priority, and his leadership is driving real progress,” she said.
Reflecting on the concept of reform, Atoyebi stated: “When Nigerians hear ‘Tax Reform Bill’ today, they now associate it with clarity and purpose—and above all, with Dr. Zacch Adedeji, a leader who connects with the people.”
Under Dr. Adedeji’s leadership, the FIRS has fast-tracked internal reforms by digitizing processes, automating over 80% of tax return handling, and enhancing the TaxProMax system to make tax compliance easier and more accessible.
“This is exactly what Nigerians have been waiting for. Change isn’t just a promise anymore—it’s in motion,” she affirmed.
By the end of 2024, four draft bills were introduced:
- The Nigeria Revenue Service Bill
- The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill
- The Nigeria Taxation (Consolidation) Bill
- The Joint Tax Board Bill
These bills aim to simplify and harmonize tax laws, improve administration, and expand the tax base without increasing the burden on citizens. Public hearings at the National Assembly provided opportunities for feedback from experts, governors, and stakeholders. Some revisions were made—such as keeping the current VAT rate—based on these consultations.
Atoyebi revealed that the House of Representatives passed the Tax Reform Bills on March 13, 2025. The Senate is expected to review them after resuming plenary on April 29, 2025. Once approved, the bills will be forwarded to the President for final assent.
She concluded by highlighting the collective effort behind the reforms: “This progress required strong presidential backing, expert leadership, and most importantly, Dr. Zacch—our Tax Boss—who has led this transformation with vision and determination.”
“With consistent implementation and robust systems, these reforms will create a more inclusive and effective tax environment that benefits both the government and the Nigerian people. These reforms are not just policy—they are the lasting change we’ve all been waiting for.”