The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in ensuring the effectiveness and integrity of Nigeria’s tax system. At the opening ceremony of the High Impact Interactive Conference with Justices and Judges in Abuja, the FIRS, in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI), highlighted the judiciary’s pivotal responsibility in interpreting tax laws and fostering trust within the tax framework.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, represented by Muhammad Abubakar, the Coordinating Director of Services Support Group, stressed the importance of the judiciary in maintaining a robust tax regime. “For our tax system to be effective, it requires the unwavering support and integrity of our judiciary,” Abubakar said. He underscored that the judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding justice, fairness, and ensuring compliance with tax laws.
“The judiciary serves as the guardian of justice and fairness in our society,” he stated. “By upholding the rule of law and delivering fair judgments, you reinforce the confidence of citizens and businesses alike, encouraging them to fulfill their tax obligations.” Abubakar called on the judiciary to remain committed to delivering fair and accountable judgments, which would enhance trust in the tax system and promote voluntary tax compliance across Nigeria.
During a press briefing following the ceremony, Abubakar expressed confidence that the FIRS would meet its revenue target of N19.4 trillion for the year. He also indicated that the agency is preparing for future challenges, particularly as the government may increase revenue targets by 2025. “We expect that by the year 2025, government might decide to maybe increase the target a bit. So, we have to get prepared,” he noted.
Abubakar pointed out that the conference is part of FIRS’ broader strategy to enhance capacity and prepare for changes in tax laws expected to be enforced from January 2025.
In her speech, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, reiterated the importance of thoroughness by institutions presenting tax cases before the courts. She stated that while the conference is essential for building capacity and understanding sector-specific issues like taxation, it is the responsibility of relevant agencies to perform their duties diligently. “This conference is crucial for building capacity, but it does not replace the duty of relevant agencies to diligently perform their responsibilities,” the CJN said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also highlighted the gaps between global tax strategies and Nigeria’s domestic tax framework, particularly in the digital economy. She noted that while Nigeria benefits from international tax structures, there is a need to bridge the gap between these strategies and the country’s tax system. The CJN called for continuous judicial education on specialized matters such as taxation and urged judges to maintain consistency in their rulings to promote fairness and transparency.
The conference serves as a platform for fostering collaboration between the judiciary and tax authorities, aiming to enhance the efficiency and reliability of Nigeria’s tax system in the face of emerging challenges.
