CITN President Hails FIRS Chairman Adedeji’s Leadership in Tax Reform
On Thursday, August 7, 2025, the President and Chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Mr. Innocent C. Ohagwa, FCTI, led a high-level delegation on a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, at the FIRS headquarters in Abuja.
The visit, which formed part of CITN’s institutional engagements with key stakeholders in the Nigerian tax system, provided an opportunity for the two bodies to explore areas of collaboration, strengthen professional ties, and discuss ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s fiscal and tax policies.
In his remarks, Mr. Ohagwa expressed the Institute’s admiration for Dr. Adedeji’s outstanding leadership at the helm of the FIRS, noting that his tenure has ushered in a new era of innovation, transparency, and efficiency in tax administration.
He particularly commended Dr. Adedeji’s strategic role as the Secretary of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, where his expertise has helped shape critical reforms aimed at broadening the tax base, simplifying the tax system, and improving revenue generation.
“We are proud of the direction in which you are taking the FIRS and, by extension, the Nigerian tax system. Your leadership has not only stabilized the institution but has given taxpayers renewed confidence in the fairness and competence of our tax authorities,” Mr. Ohagwa stated. “Your commitment to institutional reform, stakeholder engagement, and digital transformation aligns perfectly with CITN’s vision for a world-class tax profession in Nigeria.”
The CITN President also reiterated the importance of continuous capacity building for tax professionals, policy synergy between institutions, and public enlightenment to improve voluntary compliance.
He affirmed CITN’s readiness to support the FIRS in areas such as training, research, and public education to deepen tax knowledge and boost performance.
In his response, Dr. Zacch Adedeji thanked the CITN delegation for the visit and for their consistent role in professionalizing taxation in Nigeria.
He described the CITN as a critical partner in the nation’s tax ecosystem and emphasized the need for stronger collaboration in the implementation of tax reforms that reflect global best practices.
“We see CITN as a vital ally in our journey to transform Nigeria’s revenue system. Together, we can build a tax culture that is citizen-friendly, efficient, and growth-oriented,” Dr. Adedeji said. “Our focus remains on simplifying the tax system, reducing compliance costs, and making the FIRS more technology-driven and taxpayer-centric.”
The FIRS Chairman also assured the CITN of the Service’s willingness to partner on strategic initiatives that promote tax awareness, professional development, and inclusive policy reforms.
The visit ended with a symbolic exchange of goodwill and a renewed commitment by both institutions to work collaboratively in shaping Nigeria’s fiscal future.
