FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji earns international recognition for tax reforms

By Kunle Sanni

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has received international recognition for his sweeping reforms of Nigeria’s tax system, earning accolades at the 96th meeting of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) in London.

According to a statement released on Sunday by media aide and tax analyst Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Adedeji was praised by global tax leaders for his “outstanding contribution to tax administration” across the Commonwealth.

“This is not a local commendation or political favour,” Atoyebi said. “This is global acknowledgment by professionals who understand the substance of real reform.”

Adedeji, who recently concluded his tenure as President of CATA, was celebrated by the association’s Executive Director, Dr. Esther Koisin, and Chairman, Mr. Mahmad Noor, for his visionary leadership, which has helped modernise Nigeria’s tax system and elevate its profile in international tax policy circles.

Under his leadership, Nigeria has made significant strides in automating tax processes, closing compliance gaps, and enhancing public trust. His emphasis on digitalisation has been credited with improving revenue collection and making the tax system more transparent and user-friendly.

“Nigeria has shifted from being a passive observer to an active contributor in global tax discourse,” Atoyebi added. “Dr. Adedeji’s reforms have not only raised revenue but also reshaped how Nigeria is viewed in international tax conversations.”

She noted that his leadership style—marked by empathy, passion, and strategic thinking—serves as a model for public service in Nigeria.