Civil Society Groups Issue Public Apology to FIRS Chairman
A coalition of nine prominent Civil Society Organizations has publicly and unreservedly apologized to Dr Zacch Adedeji, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, after discovering that corruption allegations made against him were completely unfounded.
The organizations expressed deep regret for their previous protest at the National Assembly, where they had accused top FIRS officials of financial misconduct, money laundering, and abuse of office. Following thorough investigations and verification of facts, the coalition confirmed that their initial claims were based on inaccurate and unverified information.
Leaders Behind the Retraction
The joint apology statement was signed by leaders of all nine organizations involved in the initial protest. The signatories included Dr. Emeka Mbonu of the Organisation of Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria, Chief (Mrs) Osondu Chinelo from Citizens Right International, and Dr. Oluaseun Ayotomiwa representing Advocacy for Good Governance.
Other prominent signatories were Amb. Eyitayo Olukayode of the Centre for Leadership and Educational Development, Hajia Zainabu Mohammed from Africa Patriotic Development Mission, and Dr. Usman Aliyu Yahaya of the Zero Tolerance and Anti-Corruption Network.
The coalition stated clearly: "We have now confirmed that the information we relied upon during the protest was inaccurate and not properly verified. We sincerely apologise to Dr Zacch Adedeji for any harm, embarrassment, or misunderstanding caused by the claims in the protest statement."
Record-Breaking Revenue Achievements
Since Dr Adedeji assumed leadership of FIRS over two years ago, the Service has achieved remarkable revenue milestones that contradict the corruption allegations. In 2023, FIRS generated ₦12.36 trillion against a target of ₦11.55 trillion, demonstrating significant overperformance.
The success continued into 2024 with ₦21.7 trillion collected, exceeding the ₦19.7 trillion projection. Even more impressively, between September 2023 and August 2025, the Service realized ₦46 trillion in total tax revenue, representing 115 percent of its combined targets during this period.
Digital Transformation Driving Success
Dr Adedeji's tenure has been characterized by comprehensive digital reforms that have transformed Nigeria's tax system. The FIRS launched several innovative digital tools including TaxPro-Max, e-Invoicing, and USSD tax payment services, which have automated over 80 percent of previously manual processes.
The introduction of the National Single Window Project has harmonized government revenue processes and enhanced trade facilitation at Nigerian ports. Additionally, the creation of One-Stop-Shop offices nationwide has significantly improved accessibility for taxpayers while reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Dr Adedeji's management philosophy emphasizes service, accountability, and inclusion, with strong focus on taxpayer satisfaction, vendor relations, and staff welfare. He has consistently affirmed: "We are committed to fair tax administration through responsive and accessible service to optimise revenue for national development."
Broader Economic Impact
Beyond meeting revenue targets, Dr Adedeji's administration has focused on increasing Nigeria's tax-to-GDP ratio from 10.8 percent to 18 percent, aligning it with the African average. The FIRS has also strengthened non-oil revenue streams, reducing the country's dependence on crude oil revenues and enhancing economic resilience through data-driven fiscal strategies.
The coalition concluded their apology by acknowledging Dr Adedeji's "exemplary leadership, integrity, and the reforms he has championed at the FIRS" and pledged that future advocacy efforts would be guided strictly by verified and factual information.
As Dr Zacch Adedeji continues his reform-focused leadership at FIRS, his tenure is increasingly recognized as a model of effective public service and transparent governance in Nigeria's public sector.
