The African Centre for Justice and Human Rights (ACJHR) has issued strong commendations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Zacch Adedeji, for the effective execution of Nigeria's new tax reform legislation. The group labeled the initiative a monumental stride for the nation's economy.
ACJHR Applauds Bold Leadership and Political Will
In a detailed statement released on 2 January 2026 by its Director of Policy and Strategy, Iloabuchi Mirabel Chinenye, the Centre highlighted that the reforms demonstrate "bold leadership, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment" to solving Nigeria's persistent fiscal issues. ACJHR noted that President Tinubu displayed uncommon political will by championing a policy that earlier governments had sidestepped.
The statement emphasized that the courage to enact these bills, even amid early opposition, reflects a profound understanding that sustainable economic growth must be anchored on robust domestic revenue generation. This marks a pivotal shift from an outdated, leak-prone system to a transparent framework designed to stimulate growth.
Confronting Decades of Economic Challenges
ACJHR pointed out that for many years, Nigeria's progress was stifled by several key problems:
- Weak revenue collection mechanisms
- Widespread tax evasion
- The burden of multiple taxation
- An excessive reliance on volatile oil earnings
The new tax regime directly tackles these hurdles by broadening the tax base, enhancing compliance rates, and ensuring fairness, all while avoiding placing excessive pressure on the average Nigerian citizen.
FIRS Chairman's Technocratic Excellence Highlighted
The Centre reserved specific praise for FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, crediting him with "exceptional technocratic leadership." ACJHR acknowledged his crucial part in turning policy into practical, effective action.
"Under the leadership of Mr. Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS has shown professionalism, transparency, and efficiency," the statement read. It added that clear implementation strategies and consistent engagement with various stakeholders have been instrumental in building public trust in the new tax system.
Expected Benefits and a Call for National Patience
According to ACJHR, the reforms are poised to yield extensive positive outcomes. These include:
- Substantially increased government revenue to fund critical infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare programs.
- A significant boost in investor confidence.
- The strengthening of Nigeria's fiscal independence and sovereignty.
The group appealed to all Nigerians to exercise patience and rally behind the reforms. It stressed that short-term adjustments are essential for achieving long-term economic stability and national prosperity.
"No great economy is built without sacrifice," the Centre stated, urging citizens to view the reform not as a burden but as a collective investment in building a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation.
Finally, ACJHR called on relevant government agencies to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability and to continue public education efforts. This, they argued, is vital to ensuring that the gains from the tax reforms are fully realized and distributed equitably across society.
