- The conference aims to explore ways to bridge those gaps while preventing the integrity of Nigeria’s domestic tax system
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is looking for Nigerian judges to help interpret tax laws and ensure citizens’ compliance with tax evasion.
Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of FIRS, stated this on Monday in Abuja at a High-Impact Interactive Conference for Honourable Justices and Judges hosted by the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the National Judicial Institute.
Adedeji emphasised the importance of taxes in funding essential services such as infrastructure and social programmes, noting that the tax system’s effectiveness is dependent on the judiciary’s unwavering support and integrity.
Adedeji who was represented by the coordinating director, Support Services Group at the FIRS, Muhammad Lawal Abubakar, said, “The judiciary serves as the guardian of justice and fairness as you have a role in interpreting tax laws, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring compliance is critical in fostering a climate of trust in our tax system.
By upholding the rule of law and delivering fair judgments, you reinforce the confidence of the citizens and businesses alike, encouraging them to fulfill their tax obligations.
“This partnership is imperative as we navigate the complexities of tax administration. Together, we can enhance understanding, create awareness, and combat tax evasion and avoidance that undermine our national interests.”
Earlier in her remarks, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, noted that there are significant gaps between global tax strategies and Nigeria’s domestic tax framework, particularly in the context of the digital economy. Thus, the conference aims to explore ways to bridge those gaps while preventing the integrity of Nigeria’s domestic tax system.
She also called on the FIRS to quickly fast-transform its existing structures before seeking to implement advanced technological innovations.