By Peter Omopo
The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has said the newly implemented tax laws are aimed at promoting sustainable development, accelerating economic growth and strengthening public institutions across the country.
Adedeji made this known during a national television interview on Monday, noting that while tax reforms often generate political debate, their core objective is to stabilise the economy and build institutions capable of supporting long-term national development.
He dismissed claims that the new tax framework could be used by the Federal Government to intimidate political opponents or target individuals based on political affiliation, stressing that the reforms are anchored on national interest, transparency and institutional responsibility.
Responding to concerns about selective enforcement and politically motivated scrutiny, Adedeji described such fears as misplaced, explaining that the reform process is guided by due process and a deliberate effort to establish credible, rule-based institutions.
According to him, the administration deserves commendation for pursuing far-reaching reforms despite the political climate.
“We need to commend the courage of Mr President, that even though there is an election coming, he is courageous enough to continue on this path of statesmanship, not that of politicians,” Adedeji said.
He explained that the government could have chosen to postpone major fiscal and institutional changes ahead of an election cycle, but instead opted to strengthen the country’s fiscal base and improve economic governance.
Adedeji said the tax reform agenda is designed to address structural deficiencies, promote fairness and create a simplified and predictable system that encourages voluntary compliance rather than enforcement driven by fear.
He acknowledged that skepticism among some critics is influenced by Nigeria’s history and past perceptions of public institutions, but maintained that the new framework significantly reduces discretion in tax administration and ensures strict adherence to established rules.
The NRS chairman added that the service is deploying systems that enhance accountability, automation and governance controls, ensuring that tax administration is driven by law rather than personal judgment or political influence.
He emphasised that building trust between the government and taxpayers remains central to the reform process, noting that public confidence grows when citizens are assured that tax policies are impartial and non-partisan.
Adedeji said the reforms would be implemented in phases, with the overarching goal of creating a tax system that supports investment, protects vulnerable groups, strengthens public finances and reinforces confidence in Nigeria’s institutions.
