The Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has fired back at critics claiming the Federal Government’s new tax reforms are a tool for political persecution. In a high-stakes defense of the policy, Adedeji insisted that the reforms are built on institutional transparency rather than partisan interests.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV’s ThisDay Live on Monday, January 5, 2026, Adedeji addressed rising fears that the government might use selective tax enforcement to suppress opposition voices ahead of the next electoral cycle.
He urged Nigerians to look beyond political cycles, noting that President Bola Tinubu has prioritized long-term economic stability over short-term political gain. “We need to commend the courage of Mr. President,” Adedeji stated. “Despite the fact that there is an election coming, he is courageous enough to continue on this path of statesmanship, not that of politicians.”
Acknowledging Nigeria’s historical skepticism regarding the misuse of public institutions, the NRS boss emphasized that the 2026 framework is specifically designed to remove human discretion. The goal, he explained, is an automated, rule-based system where compliance is guided by law rather than the whims of individuals or political influence.
“The NRS is working to institutionalize systems that promote accountability and automation,” Adedeji said. “Tax administration must be guided by law rather than individual judgment or political influence.”
The Chairman reiterated that the reform is focused on three core pillars:
- Correcting Structural Weaknesses:Simplifying a complex system to make it predictable.
- Voluntary Participation: Moving away from a culture of fear or coercion to one of civic responsibility.
- Visible Results: Strengthening the link between taxes paid and the quality of public services provided to citizens.
Adedeji concluded by assuring the business community and political actors alike that the reform journey is aimed at protecting vulnerable groups and insulating the fiscal environment from partisan interference to attract long-term investment.