The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has stressed the critical role of the judiciary in ensuring Nigeria’s tax system remains effective.
Speaking at the recent High Impact Interactive Conference with Justices and Judges in Abuja, the FIRS called for unwavering judicial support to maintain integrity and foster public trust in the tax process.
Dr. Zacch Adedeji, the Executive Chairman of the FIRS, represented by Mr. Muhammad Abubakar, Coordinating Director of Services Support Group, emphasised that the judiciary’s role in interpreting tax laws and adjudicating disputes is essential in encouraging citizens and businesses to meet their tax obligations. He stated that a robust tax system depends on judicial fairness and accountability.
The event, organised in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute, aimed to build stronger ties between tax authorities and the judiciary. Dr. Zacch reaffirmed FIRS’s commitment to achieving its 2024 revenue target of ₦19.4 trillion and noted that the agency is preparing for new tax laws anticipated to take effect in 2025, which could raise revenue targets.
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, highlighted the judiciary’s responsibility to ensure fairness in tax rulings. She accentuated the importance of bridging the gap between global tax strategies and Nigeria’s domestic framework, particularly in the context of the digital economy. Justice Kekere-Ekun also stressed the need for continuous judicial education to ensure consistency and transparency in tax-related matters.
The collaboration between the FIRS and the judiciary demonstrates a shared commitment to national progress, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal framework and improve public confidence in the tax system.
