The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has emphasized the importance of judicial support in fostering a robust tax system in Nigeria. At the opening of a High Impact Interactive Conference in Abuja, organized in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute, the FIRS stressed that the judiciary plays a critical role in maintaining trust and compliance in the nation’s tax framework.
Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the FIRS, represented by Muhammad Abubakar, the Coordinating Director of Services Support Group, highlighted the judiciary’s role in interpreting tax laws, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring compliance. “Your role in interpreting tax laws and delivering fair judgments reinforces the confidence of both citizens and businesses, encouraging them to meet their tax obligations,” he stated.
Abubakar further revealed to journalists that FIRS is on track to meet its N19.4 trillion revenue target for 2024 and hinted that the target could increase by 2025, stressing the need for preparedness with the implementation of new laws starting January 2025.
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also underscored the need for thorough case preparation by institutions bringing matters to court, noting that judicial decisions rely heavily on the quality of presented cases. She stressed the importance of continuous education for judges on complex issues such as taxation, particularly as Nigeria navigates gaps between global tax strategies and domestic frameworks in the digital economy.
Kekere-Ekun noted that collaboration between the judiciary and tax administrators reflects a shared commitment to national progress. She urged judges to maintain consistency in rulings to ensure fairness and transparency in the system, reinforcing public trust in both the judiciary and tax processes.
This conference is expected to deepen judicial understanding of sector-specific issues while promoting improvements in Nigeria’s tax administration.
