The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, on Wednesday unveiled a new organizational structure for the revenue service, describing the initiative as a critical milestone in the management’s commitment to revolutionize tax administration in Nigeria.
Adedeji announced the organizational restructuring of the Service at the ‘2024 Strategic Management Retreat with the theme ‘Re-imagining Tax Administration for Equity and Economic Growth’ held in Abuja.
He noted that the cornerstone of the paradigm shift was the establishment of a customer-centric organizational structure designed to streamline processes and enhance efficiency in the Service’s tax operations.
The tax administrator maintained that the Service was not merely adapting to change but championing it, adding that the forthcoming structure, set to kick off from February 2024, embodies the management’s dedication to modernize and digitize the tax administration landscape in Nigeria.
According to him, in the management’s current pursuit for a more efficient and contemporary tax administration methodology, the Service is embracing an integrated tax approach, leveraging technology at every step as this approach positions FIRS at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of Nigerian taxpayers in a rapidly changing world.
Adedeji further clarified on the initiative that “the structure advocates for a comprehensive approach to taxpayer services, consolidating our core functions and support under one umbrella. By tailoring our services to specific taxpayer segments, we aim to simplify the taxpayer experience. No more complexities, no more overlaps—just a seamless and user-friendly interaction for every taxpayer.
“In a groundbreaking move, we are shifting away from traditional tax categorization. Instead of maintaining different departments for distinct tax categories, the new structure formulates taxpayer segments based on thresholds. This tailored approach ensures that taxpayers are guided and serviced according to their specific needs, eliminating confusion and redundancy in tax administration.
“Behind this transformative initiative are carefully considered considerations detailed in our operations plan. We highlight the rationale behind our integrated approach, the benefits of comprehensive taxpayer services, and the logic behind tailored taxpayer categories, which will be presented to management in the subsequent sessions of this workshop. These considerations set the stage for a more responsive, efficient, and user-friendly tax administration system”, he added.
He assured stakeholders in the tax system that due process would be followed in the course of the reformation and that extensive re-orientation and change initiatives would be implemented to ensure that no one is left behind.
The FIRS boss maintained that the agency’s management recognized the need for meticulous planning, effective communication, and unwavering commitment to successfully navigate this transformative journey.
He expatiated: “As we stand united in this endeavor, let me reassure you that FIRS is already a formidable force, and with these new efficiencies, we can indeed meet and exceed our targets. This is not just a restructuring; it is a catalyst for a monumental leap forward, a collective investment in our shared future, and an unyielding commitment to excellence in tax administration.
“In conclusion, the forthcoming structure is not just a set of reforms; it is a commitment to redefine FIRS’s role in shaping a modern, efficient, and customer-focused tax administration system. Through innovative organizational restructuring and process optimization, FIRS is committed to fostering a taxpayer-friendly environment that aligns with global best practices and positions Nigeria as a leader in contemporary tax administration.
“As we unveil this new chapter in the history of FIRS, I urge all of you to embrace change, to be pioneers in this transformative journey, and to envision the future we are collectively building. Together, we will redefine excellence in tax administration, setting new standards and inspiring others to follow”, Adedeji added.
