The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has urged Nigerians to stop seeing taxes as punishment and instead view them as the foundation of national development.
Adedeji, represented by his Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, spoke in Kaduna on Wednesday during a one-day sensitization programme on The Role of Media in Voluntary Tax Compliance.
He stressed that taxes remain the lifeline of every country, funding hospitals, schools, roads, and security services that directly improve the lives of citizens.
“Taxes are not just government revenue; they are the foundation of growth in our nation,” Adedeji said.
“We need a culture of voluntary compliance where citizens pay willingly because they trust the system and see the benefits.”
The FIRS boss explained that many Nigerians still view taxation as a burden.
He emphasized that public enlightenment and trust in government are critical to building voluntary compliance.
He also highlighted the vital role of the media in bridging the gap between government and citizens.
According to him, journalists can simplify complex tax laws, educate citizens, and hold leaders accountable.
“When the media builds trust, citizens are more likely to comply,” he added.
Dr. Mohammed Adamu, who presented a paper titled Voluntary Tax Compliance: A Pathway to Sustainable Development in Nigeria, described taxation as the most reliable source of government revenue.
He said voluntary compliance reduces enforcement costs, strengthens trust, and encourages patriotism.
“Tax revenues fund our roads, schools, hospitals, and security. A compliant taxpayer is a stakeholder in national progress,” Adamu stated.
He added that voluntary compliance also boosts investor confidence and reduces tax evasion.
Adamu identified fairness in tax administration, transparency, and accountability as major drivers of compliance.
He praised FIRS initiatives like the TaxPro Max platform, amnesty programmes, and taxpayer service units.
Another speaker, Ishaku Ankuma, Senior Manager of Tax at the Kaduna Government Business Office, outlined key practices such as proper record-keeping, timely filing of returns, and prompt payment of withholding taxes.
He warned that non-compliance attracts fines, interests, criminal charges, and reputational damage.
Ankuma also stressed the importance of early education through youth-focused initiatives like Catch Them Young in schools to build a tax culture from childhood.
The sensitization ended with a charge to the media to demystify taxation, expose evasion, and promote a culture of compliance that strengthens national growth.