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Tag: Zacch Adedeji

  • Zacch Adedeji: The technocrat who makes the system work

    Zacch Adedeji: The technocrat who makes the system work

    By Arabinrin Aderonke

    We do not talk enough about institutions or agencies in Nigeria. The conversation is often about who holds office, who left, who is performing, and who is not. But if we are serious about building a country that works, we must change that focus. 

    Great nations like the United States, Germany, and Japan were built not only by people but by the systems and structures they established. That is why the Tax Reform Bills is a big deal. Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (now Nigeria Revenue Service), deserves his flowers.

    In Nigeria, many laws are passed with little follow-up. Good ideas often do not survive politics. The Tax Reform Bills, signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, followed a clear process. From early consultations to communication with the public and coordination with the National Assembly, the approach was structured. These policies form the base for a more fair, inclusive, and efficient tax system. 

    And truly, how many things do we even want to say? Where do we start? This man is trying. Dr. Zacch didn’t wait for applause before doing the work. He has focused on building a system that works, not just for the government but for the people. This tax reform is only the highlight we are all now talking about. But the real work started when he became the Executive Chairman.

    He began with the agency itself. Staff morale was low, structures were loose, and the system was outdated. He reorganized departments, improved staff welfare, increased salaries, and created a culture of responsibility. 

    The environment changed from survival to performance. He understood that if the people inside the system were not motivated, nothing on the outside would function properly.

    Then he went after the process. Under his leadership, the TaxProMax platform was upgraded. New modules were added. Over 80 per cent of operations were automated. 

    Filing became easier, records became clearer, and service delivery improved. He introduced a USSD code that allows people to retrieve their TIN and tax clearance certificates straight from their phones, with no internet being required. These are real solutions for real Nigerians.

    He also spearheaded the National Single Window Project, which links tax, customs, and trade. For the first time, businesses could start seeing a more coordinated and transparent system. 

    In 2023, revenue collection hit ₦12.36 trillion. In 2024, it grew to ₦21.6 trillion. Not by squeezing people dry but by widening the tax net, blocking leakages, and making compliance easier. In 2025, the target is ₦25.2 trillion, and with the structure he has put in place, it is not just possible, it is planned for.

    But beyond technology and revenue numbers, the Tax Boss has been consistent in saying we must not tax poverty. He pushed for exemptions for small businesses and low-income earners. He ensured that essential items like food, health, education, accommodation, and transport were VAT-free. That is leadership with empathy. 

    So yes, let us give him his flowers, and give them to him well. Tax Boss is not like the usual people we see in government. He came in, kept his head down, and did the work the way his boss, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asked him to. He didn’t chase attention, but now the results are speaking louder than any press conference. 

    In a country where many enter the office and leave things worse, Dr. Zacch is proof that one person can come in and truly change the story. He is showing us that the government can work if the right person is in charge. He is the kind of leader Nigeria needs more of, focused, honest, and truly working for the people. He has not only done well. He has set a new standard.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service

  • FIRS extends service period to ease tax collection

    FIRS extends service period to ease tax collection

    Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) workers are to continue working on weekends till end of the month, the Executive Chairman, Dr. Zacch Adedeji has directed.

    This was made known yesterday by Special Adviser to the EC Mr. Dare Adekanbi in statement.

    Adekanbi said: “To ease the process for taxpayers, enhance service delivery, and maximize tax collection during this critical period, management has approved extension of tax office operations to weekends for the month of June 2025.”

    He added: “The extension of working hours during the CIT filing season reflects the agency’s evolving mandate from simply collecting taxes to facilitating voluntary compliance and improving taxpayer experience across all segments.”

    Officials said the extension of working hours is designed to accommodate the increased tax filing activities associated with the peak period for Companies Income Tax (CIT) submissions.

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    Under the new arrangement, all tax offices under the Large Taxpayers Group (LTG), Government and Medium Taxpayers Group (GMTG), and Emerging Taxpayers Group (ETG) are to operate from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays and from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays.

    The weekend service, which began June 14, will continue until June 29. This measure is to assist companies whose financial year ended on December 31, last years and are legally required to submit their annual returns by June 30.

    In a joint directive issued by the Coordinating Directors of the three tax groups—Ms. Amina Ado (LTG), Dr. Dick Irri (GMTG), and Mr. Kabir Abba (ETG)—FIRS staff were informed of the management’s decision and directed to implement it effectively.

    Since assuming office, Dr. Adedeji has made far-reaching reforms in the operations of the agency to fast-track transformation and service delivery.

  • Zacch Adedeji turns heads globally with tax overhaul

    Zacch Adedeji turns heads globally with tax overhaul

    By Arabinrin Aderonke

    If you think tax reform in Nigeria is all talk and no action, then you haven’t been paying attention to what Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, is doing at the agency. Where do we even start? Is it the tax reform bill that was recently passed, the changes to the agency’s structure, or the full-scale tax modernisation happening?

    Technology is no longer a side note. It is now playing a role in how taxes are collected. It reduces the risks of manipulation, closes up long-standing loopholes, and makes it easier for taxpayers to understand and meet their obligations. What used to feel like a complicated, stressful process is now becoming more user-friendly.

    Now, add global recognition to that list. At the just-concluded 96th Management Committee Meeting of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) in London, Dr. Zacch was honored by his counterparts for his outstanding contribution to tax administration, not just in Nigeria but across the Commonwealth.

    This is not a local commendation or a political appointment. This is a global acknowledgement by professionals who know what real work looks like. CATA’s Executive Director, Dr. Esther Koisin, and the Association’s Chairman, Mr. Mahmad Noor, who is the Acting Commissioner General of the Mauritius Revenue Authority, both praised Dr. Zacch’s leadership and Nigeria’s role in supporting CATA’s mission to advance tax administration in member countries.

    It is not every day that a Nigerian public servant gets international recognition for work that usually goes unnoticed. When it happens, it means one thing: the Tax Boss is doing well. He is consistently changing the face of tax administration, increasing revenue, and bettering the lives of Nigerians. This is no mistake.

    Read Also: Workers’ Day: FIRS staff experiencing better under Dr. Zacch Adedeji

    He is deserving of every bit of it. He is passionate, empathetic, and hardworking. Young children/adults should learn from him. He is a mentor. This is the kind of leadership we need. Nigerians are lucky to have him.

    For those who may not know, the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) is a platform that brings together tax officials from across Commonwealth countries to exchange ideas and influence global tax policies. Under the Tax Boss, Nigeria has grown to become a respected voice in that space. And that progress is something every Nigerian should be proud of.

    It was not always like this. There was a time when Nigeria’s role in international tax conversations was barely noticeable, often limited to just showing up. But today, Nigeria does much more than participate; it helps set the agenda and drive the discussions. This change shows a transformation in how Nigeria approaches tax reform and sends a message to the rest of the world that we are serious about improving our systems and sharing our experiences.

    So yes, Dr. Zacch, the Tax Boss, got a big round of applause in London. Having just completed his role as President of CATA, he has helped improve tax systems not only in Nigeria but across many Commonwealth countries. This recognition shows that honest and good work attracts attention beyond our borders. It is a time to appreciate, but more importantly, a reminder to keep building on the progress made. Well done and kudos to you, Tax boss.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service

  • FIRS chairman driving strategic overhaul to meet N25.2trn revenue target — Aide

    FIRS chairman driving strategic overhaul to meet N25.2trn revenue target — Aide

    The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, is spearheading a strategic transformation of the agency to position it for present and future responsibilities, according to Collins Omokaro, his Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy.

    Speaking on the agency’s 2025 N25.2 trillion revenue target, Omokaro said achieving the ambitious goal requires a deliberate, inclusive approach to reform and innovation within FIRS.

    He noted that under Adedeji’s leadership, the FIRS is expanding its human capital by recruiting skilled professionals and upskilling existing staff through targeted training programmes.

    “FIRS is no longer just a revenue-collection agency,” Omokaro said. “It is now a vital enabler of Nigeria’s economic stability and long-term prosperity.”

    He stated, “FIRS is at a critical point. We are redefining how we operate to meet both our present responsibilities and future ambitions. The scale of this responsibility has grown significantly, with annual revenue targets rising sharply from N10 trillion in 2023 to N19.4 trillion in 2024 and an ambitious N25.2 trillion for 2025. Meeting this ambitious trajectory will demand change, not just any change, but strategic, inclusive, and value-driven transformation. Often overlooked is the fact that change can mean growth.

    “At FIRS, change includes expanding our human capital with more skilled professionals and building the competence of our existing workforce through training, upskilling, and reskilling. It involves augmenting our processes through digitisation, automation, and smarter workflows to reduce human error, increase compliance, and improve service delivery. We are also embracing advanced technologies that redefine how tax is assessed, collected, and monitored-allowing for real-time intelligence, better forecasting, and more efficient execution.

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    “This form of change is additive, does not take away, it empowers. It builds on our existing structure while introducing new methods, tools, and approaches to fulfill our mandate better.”

    There are also areas where existing practices require refinement. Not all change demands a complete overhaul; in many cases, subtle but significant modifications can yield profound results. This includes improving turnaround times by revisiting internal workflows, streamlining taxpayer engagement for greater transparency and trust, and re-aligning internal structures to support performance-based outcomes and institutional accountability.

    “Of course, some elements will need to be removed- outdated processes, underperforming systems, or unsustainable practices. But even this is done not for the sake of subtraction, but to create space for what is better, newer, and necessary. Change of this nature is not loss; it is strategic replacement, done in pursuit of excellence.

    “FIRS is no longer just a revenue-collection agency; we are a critical enabler of Nigeria’s economic stability and prosperity. In a time when many tiers of government rely heavily on revenue from FIRS, our performance has direct implications for national development programs, infrastructure growth, social investments, debt reduction, and fiscal sustainability.

    “The alternative- continued dependence on debt to fund basic government operations-is no longer viable. We risk mortgaging the future of our children if we do not decisively transform our budget structure to be more reliant on sustainable revenue streams.

    “It is important for all internal and external stakeholders to understand that transformation at FIRS will occur at various levels and through various forms. This is not a one-dimensional reform effort focused on removal or downsizing. Rather, it is a deliberate recalibration of people, processes, and platforms to enable the Service to meet its targets- and by extension, ensure the economic prosperity of Nigeria and its future generations.

    “This transformational journey is being led by the current Executive Chairman of FIRS, Zacch Adedeji, PhD, who firmly believes that the future of the institution, indeed the nation, rests on our collective ability to embrace bold, strategic, and inclusive change. Under his leadership, transformation is not just a policy direction; it is a value system.

    “Let us remember that change is not synonymous with removal. It may come as addition, innovation, adaptation, refinement, or restructuring. Whatever form it takes, it is rooted in the mission to build a more responsive, capable, and future-ready FIRS, an institution that doesn’t just react to the times but leads the charge toward sustainable national growth. This is our journey. This is our commitment. Let US all be part of this change-whether it adds, subtracts, or transforms for the greater good of Nigeria.”

  • Zacch Adedeji and FIRS’s TaxPro-Max

    Zacch Adedeji and FIRS’s TaxPro-Max

    By Rabiu Usman

    A few days ago, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) ordered all banks in the country to identify and close any tax and levy collection accounts not authorised under the agency’s TaxPro Max system. The banks are to abide by this directive immediately.

    Like others before now, this decision by Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr Zacch Adedeji, is another of his tax reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the country’s tax administration.

    Before now, the FIRS had launched the new USSD code *829#. This has in no small measure revolutionized taxpayer engagement and access to essential tax services.

    Since October 9, 2024, that it was officially launched, the USSD code *829# has simplified tax processes and provided a seamless, efficient service experience, with taxpayers now able to effortlessly access a range of services, including TIN retrieval, Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) verification, and general inquiries all from the convenience of their mobile phones and without need for internet access.

    Also in operation is the Merchant Buyer Solution (eInvoice), a government initiative under the FIRS Digitial Transformation Strategy (2023/24) that is now being used by all Value Added Tax (VAT) registered taxpayers’ businesses to manage the issuance of e-invoices in accordance with Section 25, Part 5 of the Tax Administration and Enforcement Act 2007.

    The FIRSMBS (eInvoice) is effectively replacing traditional paper or electronic documents such as invoices, credit notes, and debit notes.

    Now, it is the enforcement of the use of the TaxPro Max system, a self-service platform or portal that enables taxpayers to file tax returns, pay taxes, process and validate Tax Clearance Certificates.

    TaxPro Max is a digital solution introduced by the FIRS to centralise and automate tax administration processes. It is a self-service platform that facilitates various tax-related activities, including registration, filing, payment, and the issuance of Tax Clearance Certificates (TCCs) for both resident and non-resident taxpayers.

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    It has been central to the FIRS’s strategy to modernise Nigeria’s tax administration infrastructure, reduce human contact in tax processes, and improve ease of compliance for taxpayers.

    By the FIRS new policy, all tax and levy collections must now be processed exclusively through the TaxPro Max platform.

    According to the FIRS notice, titled; “Directive to close unauthorised FIRS tax collection accounts,” any accounts outside the TaxPro Max system are now considered unauthorised. Consequently, banks are expected to discontinue the use of such accounts without delay and ensure strict adherence to the new collection procedure.

    “Effective immediately, all tax and levy collections on behalf of FIRS must be processed exclusively pursuant to an assessment raised on the TaxPro Max platform.

    “All banks participating in the FIRS Collection, Remittance and Reconciliation Scheme are hereby advised to comply with this directive within the stipulated period,” the notice stated.

    Dr Zacch Adedeji mandating the exclusive use of the platform, will eliminate the proliferation of multiple collection accounts and bring uniformity to how taxes are assessed, collected, and reconciled.

    As for taxpayers, implication of the new policy is that all payments to FIRS must now be based strictly on assessments raised through the TaxPro Max portal. Payment through any unauthorised channel or to any unauthorised account will be invalid and could expose taxpayers to penalties.

    To the banks, they are expected to avoid regulatory breaches that may incure santions by aligning their internal tax collection mechanisms with the TaxPro Max system.

    For Dr Zacch Adedeji, the reformist tax collector, this is not the last from the book of tax reforms, other steps are in the pipeline to ensure that FIRS takes it position as the crude oil of Nigeria.

    Rabiu Usman, a public affairs commentator lives in Abuja

  • Zacch Adedeji’s inspiring tax reforms

    Zacch Adedeji’s inspiring tax reforms

    By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi

    When we look at Nigeria as a country, we all know there is more to it than just its challenges. Nigeria is a land of opportunities, rich in resources and talent. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was elected, we could say that was the beginning of the needed reform.

    He came in with the Renewed Hope agenda, a vision put in place to transform the economy and governance. But a vision alone is not enough. Execution matters, so he surrounds himself with people who can turn ideas into reality. In this administration, if you cannot deliver, you cannot stay.

    Therefore, the President carefully selected several people, “the reliable,” who can confidently translate his ideas and policy reforms of making Nigeria greater to reality and something to behold. Amongst these eggheads is the indefatigable, dependable, and ever reliable Zacch Adedeji.

    Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), is one of those delivering. He has proven this time without numbers.

    He is a results-driven technocrat who has taken on some of the toughest responsibilities in this administration. He has introduced automation, shut down leakages, and made it easier for people and businesses to comply with tax laws in Nigeria.

    Read Also: The case for a Tinubu second term

    Government revenue is growing, and money is being channeled into critical projects that benefit everyday Nigerians.

    Despite his demanding role at FIRS, Dr. Zacch has taken on national assignments, including ensuring the seamless implementation of the Naira-based crude oil supply framework.

    He has worked closely with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to ensure that local refineries like Dangote, Port Harcourt, and Warri are not sidelined in crude allocation. By supporting structured agreements that promote transparency and efficiency, he is preventing unnecessary forex exposure and protecting the naira from further depreciation.

    With so much on his plate, distractions in the form of misinformation and fake news could have been a stumbling block. However, Dr. Zacch is unmoved.

    When reports falsely claimed that the Naira-for-Crude initiative had been scrapped, he wasted no time in setting the record straight.

    He does not engage in distractions. His focus is on ensuring that Nigeria moves forward. As Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee overseeing the policy, he immediately reaffirmed that the policy is still in place, and local refineries continue to receive crude in naira.

    Every Nigerian wants a country that works. We want to see leaders who take action, not just make speeches and post on social media. Dr. Zacch is proving daily that he is one of the doers. He is not just working in one sector; he is handling multiple national projects and delivering results. He remains committed to making Nigeria better for everyone.

    With every reform, policy, and initiative, the Tax Boss proves that Nigeria does not just need ideas—it needs action. And that is exactly what he brings to the table.

    • Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service

  • Zacch Adedeji’s inspiring tax reforms

    Zacch Adedeji’s inspiring tax reforms

    • By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi

    When we look at Nigeria as a country, we all know there is more to it than just its challenges. Nigeria is a land of opportunities, rich in resources and talent. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was elected, we could say that was the beginning of the needed reform.

    He came in with the Renewed Hope agenda, a vision put in place to transform the economy and governance. But a vision alone is not enough. Execution matters, so he surrounds himself with people who can turn ideas into reality. In this administration, if you cannot deliver, you cannot stay.

    Therefore, the President carefully selected several people, “the reliable,” who can confidently translate his ideas and policy reforms of making Nigeria greater to reality and something to behold. Amongst these eggheads is the indefatigable, dependable, and ever reliable Zacch Adedeji.

    Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), is one of those delivering. He has proven this time without numbers.

    He is a results-driven technocrat who has taken on some of the toughest responsibilities in this administration. He has introduced automation, shut down leakages, and made it easier for people and businesses to comply with tax laws in Nigeria.

    Government revenue is growing, and money is being channeled into critical projects that benefit everyday Nigerians.

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    Despite his demanding role at FIRS, Dr. Zacch has taken on national assignments, including ensuring the seamless implementation of the Naira-based crude oil supply framework.

    He has worked closely with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to ensure that local refineries like Dangote, Port Harcourt, and Warri are not sidelined in crude allocation. By supporting structured agreements that promote transparency and efficiency, he is preventing unnecessary forex exposure and protecting the naira from further depreciation.

    With so much on his plate, distractions in the form of misinformation and fake news could have been a stumbling block. However, Dr. Zacch is unmoved.

    When reports falsely claimed that the Naira-for-Crude initiative had been scrapped, he wasted no time in setting the record straight.

    He does not engage in distractions. His focus is on ensuring that Nigeria moves forward. As Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee overseeing the policy, he immediately reaffirmed that the policy is still in place, and local refineries continue to receive crude in naira.

    Every Nigerian wants a country that works. We want to see leaders who take action, not just make speeches and post on social media. Dr. Zacch is proving daily that he is one of the doers. He is not just working in one sector; he is handling multiple national projects and delivering results. He remains committed to making Nigeria better for everyone.

    With every reform, policy, and initiative, the Tax Boss proves that Nigeria does not just need ideas—it needs action. And that is exactly what he brings to the table.

    •Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service

  • The agile and proactive Zacch Adedeji

    The agile and proactive Zacch Adedeji

    By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi

    When we look at Nigeria as a country, we all know there is more to it than just its challenges. Nigeria is a land of opportunities, rich in resources and talent. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was elected, we can say that was the beginning of the reform we needed. 

    He came in with the Renewed Hope agenda, a vision put in place to transform the economy and governance. But a vision alone is not enough. Execution matters, which is why he surrounds himself with people who can turn ideas into reality. In this administration, if you cannot deliver, you cannot stay.

    Therefore, the President carefully selected a number of people, “the reliable,” who can confidently translate his ideas and policy reforms of making Nigeria greater to reality and something to behold. Amongst these eggheads is the indefatigable, dependable, and ever reliable Zacch Adedeji.

    Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is one of those delivering. He has proven this time without number. He is a results-driven technocrat who has taken on some of the toughest responsibilities in this administration. 

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    He has introduced automation, shut down leakages, and made it easier for people and businesses to comply with tax laws in Nigeria. Government revenue is growing, and money is being channelled into critical projects that benefit everyday Nigerians.

    Despite his demanding role at FIRS, Dr. Zacch has taken on national assignments, including ensuring the seamless implementation of the Naira-based crude oil supply framework. 

    He has worked closely with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to ensure that local refineries like Dangote, Port Harcourt, and Warri are not sidelined in crude allocation. By supporting structured agreements that promote transparency and efficiency, he is preventing unnecessary forex exposure and protecting the naira from further depreciation.

    With so much on his plate, distractions in the form of misinformation and fake news could have been a stumbling block. However, Dr. Zacch is unmoved. When reports falsely claimed that the Naira-for-Crude initiative had been scrapped, he wasted no time in setting the record straight. He does not engage in distractions. His focus is on ensuring that Nigeria moves forward. 

    As Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee overseeing the policy, he immediately reaffirmed that the policy is still in place, and local refineries continue to receive crude in naira. 

    Every Nigerian wants a country that works. We want to see leaders who take action, not just make speeches and post on social media. Dr. Zacch is proving daily that he is one of the doers. 

    He is not just working in one sector; he is handling multiple national projects and delivering results. He remains committed to making Nigeria better for everyone.

    With every reform, every policy, and every initiative, the Tax Boss proves that Nigeria does not just need ideas. It needs action. And that is exactly what he brings to the table.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service

  • Naira-for-crude policy remains in place, says Technical sub-committee chairman

    Naira-for-crude policy remains in place, says Technical sub-committee chairman

    The federal government’s policy allowing crude oil sales in naira for domestic refining remains in place, despite reports suggesting its discontinuation, according to Zacch Adedeji, Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee on the Federal Executive Council Initiative on Domestic Sales of Crude Oil and Refined Products.

    In a statement issued on Monday, Adedeji dismissed claims that domestic refineries have been forced to rely solely on international crude purchases. 

    He reaffirmed that the naira-based crude supply arrangement is still operational and remains a key component of the government’s strategy to stabilize supply and optimize local refining capacity.

    “There has been no decision at the policy level to discontinue this approach, nor is it being considered,” Adedeji stated. “After months of implementation, evidence shows that this policy is the right way forward for the economy.”

    The statement read: “Our attention has been drawn to reports doing the rounds and suggesting that the naira-based crude oil supply arrangement with local refineries has been discontinued, forcing the domestic refineries to rely solely on international crude purchases. 

    “These reports do not reflect the realities of the ongoing work under the Federal Executive Council Initiative on Domestic Sales of Crude Oil and Refined Products in Naira.

    “As the committee driving the implementation of this laudable initiative, we wish to provide an update on the Federal Executive Council initiative and confirm as follows.”

    No exclusion of local refineries

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    He clarified that local refineries have not been excluded from accessing domestic crude, emphasizing that the supply process remains intact through structured agreements that consider availability, demand, and market conditions. 

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) continues to enforce compliance with the Domestic Crude Oil Obligations provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, ensuring local refiners receive adequate supply.

    Competitive pricing and market efficiency

    The policy framework also supports competitive pricing and market efficiency, ensuring that domestic crude transactions occur in a structured and fair environment.

    Strengthening implementation

    Adedeji reiterated the committee’s commitment to improving the policy’s execution, with the broader objectives of enhancing local refining, reducing foreign exchange exposure, and stabilizing the domestic fuel supply.

    This assurance comes as Nigeria continues efforts to boost its refining capacity and reduce reliance on imported petroleum products.

  • Who is Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS boss?

    Who is Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS boss?

    By Arabinrin Aderonke 

    I have worked in media, development, and journalism fields for almost two decades, and I can attest that genuine leadership is uncommon, particularly in a country like ours, Nigeria. 

    Titles and personal accomplishments are not important; what matters is the capacity to put in effort, motivate, and uplift others. A perfect example of this is Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). 

    In terms of leadership, this man is a force to be reckoned with; his influence is felt not just by his words but also by his actions. He has distinguished himself in Nigeria’s tax sector in many ways.

    The famous Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “The time is always right to do what is right.”  

    This quote captures the Tax Boss’s approach. He has taken responsibility for the whole tax system, not just his role. 

    Dr. Zacch has been spearheading some of the most innovative tax reforms in Nigeria’s history. These reforms were not just about improving tax collection; they were about ensuring a fair and transparent process for every Nigerian.

    Dr. Zacch is not only concerned with his success but also invests in the growth of his team. Many people express gratitude for his role as a mentor. The workforce he leads doesn’t just work for him; they grow because of him.

    The Tax Boss’s work ethic is something to emulate. If there’s one thing you can say about him, it’s that he is practical. He understands the weight of responsibility on his shoulders and approaches it with discipline. 

    FIRS has met and exceeded expectations, improving revenue generation in ways that many thought impossible. He has restored Nigeria’s faith in tax administration.

    He listens, engages, and makes sure everyone understands their position at FIRS. This has enabled him to easily implement necessary changes in the agency. 

    There is no confusion or chaos. Everything runs like clockwork because the Tax Boss is constantly thinking ahead, anticipating needs, and addressing problems before they become issues.

    Whether engaging with world-class economists or everyday Nigerians, he speaks with a clarity that makes complex issues understandable and solutions attainable. 

    It’s no surprise that he is widely respected and admired. Even Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, once described him as a “smart guy.”

    The Tax Boss is more than simply a leader; he is a mentor, a visionary, and someone who is transforming the way leadership is seen. He leads with heart, dedication, and, most importantly, a concern for others, which is becoming all too rare these days.

    If you see a man who is ready to work, you will know. Dr Zacch’s actions speak louder than words. Congratulations to us all for having a leader who is all about making real change happen!

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the Technical Assistant, Broadcast Media, to the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service