FIRS allays Borno youths’ fears over tax reforms, highlights incentives

…we will demand accountability – CATAI

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has said that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws are designed to enhance economic competitiveness, attract investment, and ensure long-term fiscal stability, as stakeholders intensify efforts to deepen public understanding of ongoing tax reforms.

Speaking at an event recently, Adamu Isa, a Tax Controller with the FIRS, said the new tax regime offers several incentives aimed at easing compliance and encouraging investment, emphasising that informed engagement remains crucial to benefiting from the reforms.

The clarification was made in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, during a one-day dialogue organised by the Centre for Advocacy and Transparency and Accountability Initiative (CATAI), in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria, on strengthening understanding of tax reform for inclusive governance. The event was themed “Youth, Tax Reform and Accountability: Building Informed Voices for Tax.”

Isa allayed the fears of youths in Borno over the possible introduction of new taxes through the proposed reforms, as well as concerns about deductions from bank accounts without consent.

Read also: New Year: Expectations mixed as Nigeria prepares for sweeping tax reforms

He noted that the new tax law would drive efficiency and modernisation, simplify tax processes, ensure synergy among relevant agencies, improve efficiency and effectiveness in government savings, promote transparency and integrity in revenue collection, align with international standards, and broaden Nigeria’s tax base.

According to him, misconceptions about taxation often stem from inadequate information, stressing that the reforms are designed to support taxpayers rather than burden them.

“There are many incentives for the taxpaying public to enjoy. What is important is to listen to the right people and get properly informed. When you take advantage of the incentives and comply with your tax obligations, there is nothing to be afraid of,” Isa said.

He urged Nigerians, particularly youths, to engage constructively with tax authorities, adding that voluntary compliance would strengthen public revenue and support sustainable national development.

In his remarks, Abubakar Sadiq Mu’azu, Executive Director of CATAI, said the workshop was convened to promote inclusive governance by strengthening civic engagement and enhancing citizens’ understanding of tax reforms.

Mu’azu explained that CATAI’s broader mandate includes improving service delivery, empowering communities, and supporting democratic governance, especially in fragile and emergency settings.

He said the organisation works in partnership with governments, communities, and global actors to create safe and inclusive environments, while delivering age-appropriate, disability-inclusive, and gender-transformative interventions for children, youths, and caregivers.

Mu’azu said: “As an NGO working to amplify citizens’ voices and complement government efforts, we have been studying the tax reform process to understand its merits. We have seen several benefits, particularly in how citizens can contribute by paying taxes and ensuring accountability in the utilisation of such resources.

“Today’s session is aimed at advocating and sensitising young people to serve as ambassadors of these reforms, encouraging tax compliance and understanding how tax revenues shape budgetary spending. We are collaborating with the FIRS to provide accurate information so citizens can understand the merits of the reforms and how they affect their lives, especially in meeting basic community needs.

“There is nothing to panic about. It is about understanding how best to pay taxes and uphold civic duties to ensure public office holders judiciously utilise these resources for value addition across our communities.”

According to him, informed participation in tax governance is critical to building a just and accountable society.

The forum brought together youths, civil society actors, and policy stakeholders to examine the implications of the reforms and the role of citizens in accountable tax administration.

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