By Julius Peter, Abuja
The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, has said that the tax reforms being implemented by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are designed to promote prosperity, support businesses and stimulate sustainable economic growth rather than impose hardship or deepen poverty.
Adedeji stated this on Thursday in Abuja while speaking at the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF), organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI).
The trade fair, which brought together business owners, investors, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and other stakeholders, was held under the theme: “Resilience: Trade, Taxation and the Economy.”
The NRS chairman explained that the Federal Government’s ongoing tax reforms were focused on creating a more efficient and business-friendly tax system capable of supporting investment, production and economic expansion.
According to him, the reforms are intended to reposition taxation as an instrument for economic development rather than merely a means of raising revenue for government.
He said the government recognised the important role played by businesses, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises, in generating employment, creating wealth and strengthening the nation’s productive capacity.
Adedeji stressed that a tax system that supports businesses would ultimately benefit the wider economy by encouraging investment, improving productivity and expanding opportunities for Nigerians.
He noted that the objective of the reforms was to create a system in which businesses could operate with greater certainty and predictability while government receives the revenue required to provide infrastructure and public services.
The NRS boss further emphasised the need for cooperation between government and the private sector in building a resilient Nigerian economy.
He said the business community should see taxation as part of the broader economic framework and not simply as an obligation imposed by government.
Adedeji’s remarks came against the backdrop of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to reform Nigeria’s tax administration and broaden the country’s revenue base.
The reforms have generated considerable public and private-sector interest, particularly over their implications for businesses, consumers and investment.
The NRS chairman maintained that the administration’s approach was aimed at improving the tax environment while ensuring that the system contributes to economic growth.
He also underscored the importance of dialogue between tax authorities and taxpayers, saying effective tax administration requires mutual understanding and engagement among stakeholders.
The Abuja International Trade Fair provided a platform for stakeholders to examine the relationship between taxation, trade and economic development at a time when businesses are adapting to changing economic conditions.
The event also offered opportunities for exhibitors to showcase products and services, establish business connections and explore new markets.
Speaking on the significance of the theme, stakeholders at the fair noted that the resilience of Nigerian businesses remains critical to the country’s economic recovery and long-term development.
They stressed that appropriate fiscal and taxation policies could help businesses remain competitive, attract investment and expand their operations.
The NRS has continued to advocate reforms aimed at improving compliance, simplifying tax administration, expanding the tax base and reducing inefficiencies within the revenue collection system.
Adedeji’s position reflects the Federal Government’s broader emphasis on using tax reforms to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation while creating conditions that support private-sector growth.
He therefore urged stakeholders to view the reforms within the context of the government’s wider economic objectives, stressing that the ultimate goal was to build an economy capable of creating sustainable prosperity for Nigerians.
The NRS chairman’s participation at the trade fair further highlighted the importance of continued engagement between the revenue authority and the business community as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its fiscal position and accelerate economic growth.
The 21st Abuja International Trade Fair consequently served as a platform for renewed discussions on how taxation, trade and private-sector resilience can work together to support Nigeria’s economic development.
