The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for significant strides in enhancing Nigeria’s tax administration, highlighting the agency’s progress under Chairman Zacch Adedeji. The commendation came during the IMF’s Headquarters Mission at the Revenue House in Abuja, where Senior Economist Paulo Paz of the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department lauded the FIRS for its effective service delivery to Nigerians.
Paz emphasized the IMF’s commitment to supporting the FIRS as it navigates new challenges, particularly following the recent enactment of four tax reform laws signed by President Bola Tinubu. These laws are expected to bolster the agency’s role in driving Nigeria’s economic growth by strengthening domestic revenue mobilization. “The IMF recognizes the excellent work FIRS has been doing for citizens, and we are honored to partner with you as these powerful new laws enhance the relevance of tax administration,” Paz stated.
Represented by Chief of Staff Tayo Koleosho, FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji welcomed the IMF’s ongoing collaboration, noting its critical role in areas such as digital transformation, VAT automation, and compliance programs. Adedeji expressed confidence in the partnership as the FIRS prepares to transition into the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) in 2026. “We are in a strong position to continue this journey together, aligning our strategies with manageable tasks to ensure sustainable progress,” he said.
Bolaji Akintola, Coordinating Director of the Corporate Services Group, highlighted the IMF’s instrumental support in FIRS’ reform efforts, particularly through the Tax Administration Diagnostic Assessment Tool (TADAT). Evaluations conducted in 2018 and 2023 revealed systemic improvements, with the 2023 assessment showing marked progress over the earlier results. Akintola attributed this to the FIRS’ commitment to institutional excellence and noted that many weaknesses identified in 2023 have already been addressed, some codified in the new tax laws. “Should another TADAT be conducted today, our performance would surpass the 2023 results,” she affirmed.
The IMF’s mission aims to identify further areas of support to strengthen Nigeria’s tax system, ensuring the FIRS can effectively implement the new laws and sustain its reform momentum. This partnership underscores Nigeria’s push toward fiscal resilience, aligning with broader economic reforms to foster sustainable development.
