New Tax Laws Will Drive Growth, Strengthen Institutions - NRS Chair Adedeji

New Tax Laws Will Drive Growth, Strengthen Institutions - NRS Chair Adedeji

The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), formerly known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has emphasized that the recently implemented tax laws are designed to foster sustainable development and accelerate economic growth.

Speaking during a national television interview, Adedeji explained that while tax reforms often generate political debate, their fundamental purpose is to stabilize the economy and strengthen institutions critical for long-term national progress.

Adedeji dismissed concerns that the new tax framework could be weaponized by the Federal Government to intimidate political opponents or target individuals based on political affiliation. He stressed that the reforms are anchored on transparency, due process, and national interest.

According to him, fears of selective enforcement or politically driven scrutiny are misplaced, as the reform process is deliberately structured to build credible institutions and minimize discretion in tax administration.

He commended the courage of the President for pursuing difficult reforms despite the political climate, noting that the government could have delayed major fiscal and institutional changes ahead of an election cycle. Instead, it chose to strengthen the country’s fiscal base and improve economic governance.

Adedeji described this as an act of statesmanship, underscoring that the reforms are not politically motivated but aimed at fixing structural deficiencies, promoting fairness, and creating a simplified, predictable system that encourages voluntary compliance.

The NRS Chairman acknowledged that doubts expressed by critics stem from Nigeria’s history and past perceptions of public institutions. However, he assured that the new framework is designed to ensure accountability and automation, thereby reducing reliance on personal judgment or political influence.

He highlighted that trust between government and taxpayers remains central to the reform process, as public confidence grows when citizens are assured that tax policies are free from partisan bias.

Adedeji further explained that the reforms will be implemented in phases, with the ultimate goal of creating a tax system that supports investment, protects vulnerable groups, and reinforces confidence in public institutions.

He emphasized that the administration is focused on expanding economic opportunities, strengthening public finances sustainably, and ensuring that taxpayers can clearly see how revenue translates into improved public services.

The new tax laws represent a bold step toward reshaping Nigeria’s fiscal landscape. By prioritizing transparency, fairness, and institutional credibility, the reforms aim to drive growth, strengthen governance, and build a tax system that serves both the nation and its citizens.