FIRS Seeks Media Support To Boost Voluntary Tax Compliance

 

 

FIRS Seeks Media Support To Boost Voluntary Tax Compliance

 

 

 

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) yesterday urged the media to partner with the agency in deepening voluntary tax compliance among Nigerians, stressing that taxation remains the bedrock of sustainable national development.

 

Speaking at a one-day sensitisation programme in Kaduna titled “The Role of Media in Voluntary Tax Compliance”, FIRS Executive Chairman, Zacch Adedeji—represented by his Technical Adviser on Broadcast Media, Arabinrin Aderonke—said tax enforcement alone cannot drive development unless citizens willingly embrace taxation as a civic duty.

 

“Taxes make it possible for hospitals to provide care, for our roads to be repaired, and for social services to reach those who need them most. They are not just government revenue; they are the foundation of growth in our nation,” Adedeji said.

 

He lamented that many Nigerians still view taxation as a burden rather than a responsibility that fuels national progress. According to him, building a culture of voluntary compliance, anchored on trust and transparency, was crucial.

 

The FIRS boss described the media as a key partner in educating citizens and shaping public perception about taxation.

“When journalists simplify complex tax laws and procedures, they empower citizens with knowledge. An informed citizen is more likely to comply with tax obligations because they can see the link between their taxes and the services they enjoy,” he noted.

 

Adedeji commended investigative journalism for exposing mismanagement of public funds, adding that accountability enhances trust in tax administration.

 

In his presentation, Dr. Mohammed Adamu, Head, Kaduna 1 Emerging Tax Audit, defined voluntary compliance as the readiness of taxpayers to declare income, file returns and pay taxes without compulsion. He said it reduces enforcement costs, assures steady revenue flow, builds patriotism, and strengthens investor confidence.

 

“Tax revenues fund our roads, schools, hospitals and security. A compliant taxpayer is a stakeholder in national progress,” he said.

 

Another presenter, Senior Manager, Kaduna Government Business Office, Ishaku Ankuma, highlighted proper registration, record-keeping, timely filing of returns, prompt payment, and remittance of withholding taxes as critical compliance measures. He warned that failure to comply attracts fines, interests, criminal charges, and reputational damage.

 

The sensitisation programme drew journalists, tax professionals, and government officials. It ended with a charge to the media to demystify taxation, expose evasion, and highlight its benefits to encourage citizens to embrace compliance as a nation-building duty.