Peace in Niger Delta drove record oil, gas revenue — FIRS Chairman

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has announced that it met its 2025 oil and gas sector revenue target for the first time in years, attributing the achievement to improved security in the Niger Delta.

FIRS Chairman, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, made the disclosure when he hosted a delegation of military leaders led by Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, in Abuja. He explained that the stability in oil-producing areas has boosted production, leading to higher profits for companies and increased tax revenue for the federation.

Adedeji commended the Armed Forces and other security agencies for maintaining peace in the region, noting that their efforts align with President Bola Tinubu’s policy of “taxing prosperity and not poverty.” He stressed that prosperity thrives in an atmosphere of peace and described the military as “critical stakeholders” in sustaining national stability.

The FIRS boss also praised the president’s commitment to the welfare of security personnel, highlighting the approval for 1,550 new housing units for members of the armed forces. He pledged the agency’s support for the upcoming African Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference, scheduled for August 25–27 in Abuja.

General Musa, in his remarks, lauded the FIRS leadership for significantly boosting revenue collection, which he said directly funds the operations of the armed forces. He noted that under Adedeji’s tenure, revenue has risen nearly tenfold, enabling better operational capabilities.

He also described the forthcoming defence chiefs’ conference as a chance to present Nigeria positively to the continent and promote African-led solutions to regional challenges. Musa stressed that African countries must address their problems collectively without overreliance on external actors.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in sustaining peace, fostering prosperity, and advancing national development.