ACJHR Hails Tinubu, NRS Over Implementation Of Tax Reform Laws

The African Centre for Justice and Human Rights (ACJHR) has applauded President Bola Tinubu and the executive chairman of the National Revenue Service (NRS), Mr. Zacch Adedeji, for the rollout of Nigeria’s new tax reform laws, describing the development as a landmark achievement in the country’s economic history.

The organisation, in a statement signed by its Director of Policy and Strategy, Iloabuchi Mirabel Chinenye, said the reforms signalled a clear turning point in addressing Nigeria’s long-standing fiscal weaknesses and reflect purposeful leadership at the highest levels of government.

According to ACJHR, the tax reforms demonstrated “bold leadership, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to fixing Nigeria’s long-standing fiscal challenges,” while also repositioning the country for sustainable growth through a more transparent and efficient revenue system.

The Centre observed that Nigeria’s economy has, for decades, struggled under the weight of poor revenue mobilisation, widespread tax evasion, multiple taxation and excessive reliance on oil income.

It noted that the new tax framework directly tackles these issues by expanding the tax base, strengthening compliance mechanisms and promoting equity, without imposing excessive pressure on ordinary citizens.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again demonstrated uncommon political will by driving a reform that previous administrations avoided,” the statement read.

“The courage to implement these tax bills, despite initial resistance, shows a deep understanding that sustainable economic growth must be built on strong domestic revenue generation.”

ACJHR also highlighted the role of the newly created NRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, crediting him with providing the technical direction needed to turn policy objectives into practical outcomes.

The organisation described his stewardship of the revenue agency as pivotal to the early gains recorded since the reforms were introduced.

“Under the leadership of Mr. Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS has shown professionalism, transparency, and efficiency. The clarity in implementation and engagement with stakeholders has helped build confidence in the new tax framework,” the statement said.

ACJHR further stated that the reforms were expected to translate into increased public revenue, which would support investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and social welfare, while also enhancing investor confidence and reinforcing Nigeria’s fiscal independence.

The group appealed to Nigerians to remain patient and supportive, stressing that temporary adjustments are inevitable in the process of achieving long-term economic stability and national prosperity.

“No great economy is built without sacrifice. Nigerians must see this reform not as a burden, but as a collective investment in a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation,” the statement added.

ACJHR also urged relevant government institutions to maintain transparency, accountability and sustained public enlightenment to ensure that the benefits of the tax reforms are fully realised and fairly distributed across the country.