The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has assured government agencies that the four tax reform bills currently being reviewed by the National Assembly will not disrupt their operations or affect their workforce.
Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with the heads of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Adedeji clarified that the bills are intended to enhance the efficiency of these agencies rather than diminish their roles.
“There is nothing in the bills that will reduce your funding or effectiveness. Instead, these provisions will help build a strong foundation for your sustainability,” Adedeji said.
Addressing concerns over the proposed renaming of the FIRS to the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Adedeji dismissed worries that this change could lead to the merger of various federal agencies. He emphasized that the reforms are part of the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen its financial structure, ultimately benefiting all agencies.
Adedeji explained that the goal of the tax reform bills is to streamline tax processes and improve efficiency, allowing agencies to focus on their core responsibilities rather than revenue collection. He noted that current tax laws are outdated and overlapping, creating unnecessary complexity.
“To convince business people worldwide that Nigeria is their best choice for investment, we need to make our tax system more streamlined and efficient,” Adedeji added.
In a related development, the House of Representatives Committee on Finance commended FIRS for its achievements and pledged continued support. During an oversight visit to FIRS’s headquarters in Abuja, committee members, led by James Faleke, inspected the agency’s new permanent headquarters in the Central Business District.
Faleke praised the transformation under Adedeji’s leadership, acknowledging the agency’s progress in increasing tax revenue and advancing infrastructure.
“We are impressed with the quality of work being done. It is evident that Chairman Adedeji has settled well into his role, and the staff are pleased with his leadership,” Faleke stated.
Faleke added that once the Nigerian Revenue Service bill is enacted, the new headquarters will serve as a launchpad for further revenue growth, emphasizing the committee’s critical role in supporting FIRS.
“If we withdraw our support, it would destabilize the system. It’s not just encouragement; it’s about fulfilling our duty to do what is right,” he said.
Adedeji assured continued collaboration with lawmakers, stating, “Our focus remains on ensuring efficient tax administration to generate revenue that supports national growth. We appreciate the Committee’s oversight and commitment to strengthening our operations.”
