CJN Urges FIRS To Fast-transform Operational Structures

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has asked the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to expedite action on transforming its operational structures for effective service delivery in line with its tax collection mandate.

“I strongly encourage the Federal Inland Revenue Service to fast-transform its existing structures before seeking to implement advanced technological innovations,” the CBN said yesterday in Abuja.

The CJN stressed the need to enhance tax collection processes by establishing domestic frameworks to ensure the effective management of the tax system.

The CJN made the remarks at a conference organised by the FIRS for justices and judges in Abuja on Monday. The conference is also designed to address the challenges the digital economy poses and reinforce its role in ensuring compliance with tax law. The CJN expressed hope that the objective will be achieved.

Earlier, Muhammad Lawal Abubakar, coordinating director of the services support group, who represented the chairman of FIRS Zacch Adedeji, said the aim was to leverage the role of the judiciary in the Nigerian tax system to properly create awareness of the FIRS’s role ahead of the ongoing federal government tax reform exercise.

“This gathering symbolises our commitment to work hand-in-hand, recognising that our collective efforts can lead to a more effective, efficient, and equitable tax system. Let us continue to build strong bridges of collaboration, ensuring that together, we create a legacy of fairness, accountability, and prosperity for Nigeria,” Abubakar stated.

Kekere-Ekun said Nigeria benefits from international structures, yet despite these advantages, significant gaps still need to be made between global tax strategies and Nigeria’s domestic tax framework.

She called on all national institutions bringing cases to the courts to note that adjudication is often dependent on the thoroughness of the institution presenting cases before the court.

Kekere-Ekun cautioned, “Adjudication is often dependent on the thoroughness of the institution presenting cases before the court.”

She said it is becoming increasingly evident that aligning with digital innovation is no longer optional but necessary.

Adedeji said the judiciary “is the guardian of justice and fairness in our society. Your role in interpreting tax laws, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring compliance is critical in fostering a climate of trust in our tax system.

“By upholding the rule of law and delivering fair judgments, you reinforce the confidence of the citizens and businesses alike, encouraging them to fulfil their tax obligations,” he told the Justices and Judges gathered.

Meanwhile, Abubakar has bragged that the FIRS would meet its target of N19.4 trillion this year.

To this end, “the conference is one of such areas that we look out for in getting ourselves prepared for next year where so many things will come on board, including the new laws expected to be enforced from January 2025,” he stated.