The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s tax system by ensuring the curtailment of tax evasion. He made this known during the inauguration of the newly appointed 50 Tax Appeal Commissioners in Abuja on Wednesday.
He highlighted the crucial role of the Tax Appeal Commissioners in supporting Nigeria’s economic reforms and enhancing revenue generation.
Edun emphasised the importance of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) in ensuring fair and efficient adjudication of tax disputes, which is essential for attracting investment and fostering a business-friendly environment
He said “reducing tax evasion is vital for maintaining trust in Nigeria’s tax system and funding national development. While tax avoidance remains legal, tax evasion must be curtailed to ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s tax system.”
Regarding Nigeria’s improving economic indicators, he emphasised on stabilising inflation, declining food prices, and rising oil production. These improvements demonstrate the progress of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to place Nigeria on a sustainable path of growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Earlier, the Honourable Minister of State Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite stated, “The Tribunal is a key mechanism in the tax system, balancing the interest of government in revenue generation and ensuring that taxpayers’ rights are protected.”
She called on the members of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) to bring their wealth of experience to bear in order to ensure the realisation of the policy objectives of the government.
Responding, the Tax Appeal Tribunal Commissioner/Chairman Mr Aderibigbe Adedeji assured the Honourable Minister that members would bring their wealth of experience to bear in discharging their duties, while also thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity given to them to serve the nation in that capacity
The inauguration comes as part of the Federal Government’s broader tax reforms designed to increase revenue for critical sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
The formal inauguration, conducted under the powers granted by the Federal Inland Revenue Service Establishment Act 2007, reinforces the government’s commitment to strengthening institutions that are essential for Nigeria’s economic transformation.
With the inauguration of the Tax Appeal Commissioners, Nigeria takes a significant step towards a more robust and efficient tax system, paving the way for increased revenue generation and sustainable economic growth.
