‎View Taxes As Path To National Development, Not As Punishment — FIRS Urges Nigerians

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has called upon Nigerians to view taxes not as punishment, but as a fundamental building block for sustainable national development.

‎During a one-day sensitization program in Kaduna focused on “The Role of Media in Voluntary Tax Compliance,” FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, represented by Technical Assistant for Broadcast Media, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, emphasized the critical importance of taxes in funding essential services such as hospitals, roads, schools, and social welfare programs that directly benefit citizens.

‎“Taxes are not merely a revenue source for the government; they are the groundwork for our nation’s growth,” Adedeji stated. “Encouraging a culture of voluntary compliance, where citizens willingly meet their civic duties because they recognize the benefits and trust in the system, is crucial.”

‎He acknowledged that many Nigerians perceive taxation as a burden, underscoring the need for enhanced public education on the subject. Adedeji highlighted that fostering trust and accountability is key to encouraging voluntary tax payments beyond just enforcement and penalties.

‎Addressing the crucial role of the media, Adedeji described journalists as essential intermediaries between the government and the public. He urged them to simplify complex tax laws and processes to enhance public understanding.

‎“When the media educates, investigates, and holds leaders accountable, it builds trust. Citizens who believe in the fairness and transparency of the tax system are more likely to comply,” he noted.

‎Aderonke called on the media to see themselves not just as reporters, but as educators and influencers whose efforts could inspire civic responsibility and strengthen the relationship between taxpayers and the government.

‎In his presentation, Dr. Mohammed Adamu discussed “Voluntary Tax Compliance: A Pathway to Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” stressing that taxation is the most reliable revenue source for any government. He defined voluntary compliance as taxpayers’ willingness to report income and pay taxes without the need for enforcement, which thrives when the tax system is viewed as equitable and transparent.

‎“Tax revenues are vital for funding our roads, schools, hospitals, and ensuring security,” Adamu stated. “A compliant taxpayer is essentially a stakeholder in national progress.” He further noted that voluntary compliance enhances investor confidence and diminishes tax evasion.

‎Key elements that drive compliance identified by Adamu included fairness in tax administration, taxpayer education, transparency, and accountability. He applauded initiatives like the FIRS TaxPro Max platform, amnesty programs, and taxpayer service units as positive steps toward improving compliance.

‎In a subsequent presentation, Ishaku Ankuma, Senior Manager, Tax, Kaduna Government Business Office, provided additional insights on voluntary tax compliance. He emphasized the importance of proper registration, accurate record-keeping, timely filing of returns, and prompt payment of taxes to avoid heavy fines, interests, criminal charges, and reputational damage. Ankuma pointed out that tax compliance certificates have now become prerequisites for many financial transactions.

‎He also highlighted the significance of taxpayer education, the automation of tax processes, and youth-focused initiatives such as “Catch Them Young” programs in schools to cultivate a tax-conscious culture from an early age.

‎“Voluntary tax compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a civic and patriotic duty,” Ankuma asserted. “By adhering to tax regulations, individuals and businesses can avoid penalties while contributing directly to national growth.”

‎The sensitization session concluded with a strong call to journalists to demystify taxation, showcase its benefits, unveil tax evasion, and positively influence public perception to foster a culture of compliance.