The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has urged Nigerians to view tax payment as a civic responsibility and a foundation for national growth rather than a punishment.
FIRS Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, made the appeal on Wednesday in Kaduna during a one-day sensitisation programme on The Role of Media in Voluntary Tax Compliance. He was represented at the event by his Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi.
Adedeji stressed that taxes are the lifeline of any nation, as they make it possible to fund hospitals, schools, roads, and social services that directly benefit citizens.
“Taxes are not just government revenue; they are the foundation of growth in our nation,” he said. “What we need is a culture of voluntary compliance where citizens willingly fulfill their civic duty because they see the benefits and trust the system.”
He noted that many Nigerians still perceive taxation as a burden, underscoring the need for stronger public enlightenment, trust, and accountability to improve voluntary compliance.
Highlighting the role of the press, Adedeji described the media as a bridge between government and citizens, capable of simplifying complex tax issues and fostering trust.
“When the media educates, investigates, and holds leaders accountable, it builds trust. A citizen who believes in the fairness and transparency of the system is more likely to comply,” he added.
Presenting a paper titled Voluntary Tax Compliance: A Pathway to Sustainable Development in Nigeria, Dr. Mohammed Adamu emphasised that taxation remains the most reliable source of government revenue.
He defined voluntary compliance as the willingness of taxpayers to declare income, file returns, and pay taxes without coercion, noting that it thrives where systems are perceived to be fair and transparent.
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“Tax revenues fund our roads, schools, hospitals, and security. A compliant taxpayer is a stakeholder in national progress,” Adamu said. He added that voluntary compliance also boosts investor confidence and reduces evasion.
Adamu identified fairness in tax administration, taxpayer education, transparency, and accountability as the key drivers of compliance. He also commended initiatives such as FIRS’ TaxPro Max platform, amnesty programmes, and taxpayer service units as positive steps.