Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is prioritising expanding its taxpayer base over introducing new taxes, a move aimed at easing the financial strain on citizens while boosting government revenue. FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, represented by Umar Idris, made the announcement at the National Dialogue hosted by Nigeria Politics Online (NPO).
“We don’t need new taxes; what we need is new taxpayers,” Adedeji said. He emphasized that the proposed tax reforms, currently in the National Assembly, aim to simplify tax payments, fostering fair and efficient tax administration to support national development.
The strategy is already bearing fruit. Revenue-collecting agencies have surpassed their targets between January and October, signaling a positive trajectory. “The signs are good that we will exceed our targets for the year,” Adedeji noted.
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Speaking further, Adedeji noted the importance of collaboration between taxpayers and the government. “We are moving from voluntary compliance to cooperative compliance,” he said. “Let’s sit and have a discussion on how best we can improve our revenue through taxation.”
He also highlighted the role of private-sector partnerships in addressing funding constraints, particularly for infrastructure and public services. “Encouraging private sector investment can foster a business-friendly environment, offer incentives, and promote public-private partnerships,” he said.
The FIRS Chairman outlined alternative strategies for boosting revenue, including asset optimization, digitalization, and privatization. He stressed the need to make tax payments more convenient, ensuring taxpayers find the process accessible and efficient.
Semiu Okanlawon, publisher of NPO Reports, addressed the harsh realities facing Nigerians. “The government is trying to raise revenue from people who are economically drained and can barely feed,” he said, highlighting the importance of thoughtful reform.
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