The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has enlisted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a vital ally in promoting voluntary tax compliance across Nigeria. FIRS Executive Chairman Dr. Zacch Adedeji made this announcement during a courtesy visit to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, signaling a renewed partnership ahead of the new Tax Acts taking effect in January 2026, which will rebrand FIRS as the Nigerian Revenue Service.
Adedeji stressed the need for inter-agency collaboration to enhance financial stability and public trust in the revenue system. “We can’t chase 200 million Nigerians individually, but a robust system with EFCC support can encourage compliance,” he said, noting that visible benefits from tax revenue would drive voluntary participation. He thanked the EFCC for its role in meeting this year’s N20 trillion revenue target, largely from non-oil sources, as confirmed by President Bola Tinubu last week, and urged deeper cooperation to deter tax evasion.
The EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, reaffirmed his agency’s commitment, highlighting a recent Court of Appeal ruling that upholds EFCC’s authority to probe tax fraud. “Seeing EFCC alongside FIRS will signal a new era of accountability,” Olukoyede remarked, clarifying that while EFCC won’t assess tax liabilities, it will investigate non-compliance and refer cases back to FIRS. He emphasized prevention, investigation, and prosecution as core duties, underscoring the importance of synergy.
Both leaders committed to strengthening their alliance, focusing on preventive strategies and fostering a culture of compliance. This move aligns with Nigeria’s economic gains, including a 67.12% rise in capital importation to $5.64 billion in Q1 2025 and naira stability at N1,527/$1 today, though challenges like 21.88% inflation in July persist. The partnership aims to safeguard public funds and support sustainable growth.
