The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has emphasized the crucial importance of the judiciary in ensuring a strong and efficient tax system. It highlighted that the integrity and cooperation of the judiciary are key to the success of Nigeria’s tax administration.
Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the FIRS, represented by Muhammad Abubakar, the Coordinating Director of the Services Support Group, explained that “for our tax system to function optimally, the unwavering support and integrity of the judiciary is indispensable.”
He made this statement during the opening session of the High Impact Interactive Conference with Justices and Judges, which was organized by the FIRS in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute in Abuja on Monday.
According to Adedeji, the judiciary “acts as the protector of justice and fairness within society. Your role in interpreting tax laws, resolving disputes, and enforcing compliance is critical in establishing a tax system built on trust.” He added that by adhering to the rule of law and delivering just decisions, the judiciary strengthens public and corporate confidence, encouraging greater tax compliance.
He urged the judiciary to remain steadfast in delivering fair and transparent judgments, reinforcing their essential role in upholding the tax system.
During an interview with journalists after the event, Abubakar reaffirmed that FIRS is on track to meet its N19.4 trillion revenue target for this year. He noted, “By 2025, the government might consider raising the target slightly, so we need to be prepared.”
He added, “This conference is one of the initiatives aimed at getting us ready for the coming year when many new developments, including new laws that will take effect from January 2025, are expected.”
In her address, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, reminded national institutions involved in legal cases that the quality of court rulings depends significantly on how thoroughly cases are prepared by those bringing them forward.
She emphasized that while this conference plays an essential role in building capacity and understanding sector-specific issues such as taxation, “it does not replace the responsibility of the relevant agencies to carry out their duties with diligence and, when necessary, adjust their processes.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun expressed concerns about the gap between global tax strategies and Nigeria’s domestic tax framework, especially in the context of the growing digital economy. She noted, “Although Nigeria benefits from international structures, there remains a significant disparity between global tax strategies and the country’s local tax system.” She added that this conference aims to explore ways to close these gaps while preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s tax structure.
The Chief Justice also emphasized the need for ongoing judicial education on specialized issues like taxation, urging judges to be consistent in their rulings to enhance transparency and fairness within the system.
Furthermore, she remarked that the collaboration between the judiciary and tax authorities signifies a collective dedication to driving national development and progress.
