FIRS seeks media support to boost voluntary tax compliance

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, has called on media practitioners to play a more active role in fostering a culture of voluntary tax compliance across Nigeria.

He also described the media as a “watchdog, educator, and bridge” between government and the citizens.

Adedeji, represented by Arabinrin Aderonke, Technical Assistant (Broadcast Media) to the Executive Chairman, made the appeal on Wednesday in Kaduna during a one-day media sensitisation and enlightenment programme.

Organised by the Office of the T.A, Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman, FIRS, the event was themed ‘The Role of Media in Voluntary Tax Compliance’.

In his opening remarks, Adedeji appreciated the presence of government stakeholders, tax professionals, and media representatives at the event.

He stated that their participation underscored a collective commitment to national development through responsible citizenship.

“It gives me great joy to welcome you to this sensitisation programme.

“By being here today, you have shown your commitment to building a Nigeria where responsibility and accountability go hand in hand,” he stated.

Adedeji emphasised that taxation remained a fundamental pillar of national development, making it possible for essential services such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare to be delivered to citizens.

He, however, decried the existence of a gap in public understanding and perception of taxation, which he said, the media can help bridge.

“Many people still see taxes as a burden or punishment rather than as a civic duty.

“What we need is a culture of voluntary compliance where citizens willingly pay taxes because they understand the benefits and trust the system,” he said.

According to him, the media must rise as an essential partner in fostering that culture by simplifying tax information, promoting dialogue, and building trust in government institutions.

“The media has always been a good messenger. It is an educator, a watchdog, and a bridge between government and the people.

“When journalists simplify complex tax laws and procedures, they empower citizens with knowledge,” Adedeji explained.

He also pointed out that investigative journalism plays a crucial role in holding public officials accountable, which in turn boosts public confidence in the tax system.

“When the people believe the system is fair and transparent, they are more willing to comply,” he added.

Speaking on the importance of media platforms, Adedeji highlighted that radio, television, print, and especially social media provide critical spaces for the citizens to engage, question, and understand tax issues directly affecting their lives.

He said, “This two-way communication makes tax administration more responsive and people-centered, stressing the need for ongoing cooperation between tax authorities and the media.”

Adedeji urged FIRS and media practitioners to commit to mutual professionalism where tax authorities supply timely and accurate information, and the media upholds ethical standards in reporting on tax matters.

” We must leave here not only more informed but more committed to working together,” he said.

In his technical presentation, Mr Mohammed Adamu, delved into the concept of Voluntary Tax Compliance, defining it as the willingness of taxpayers to declare income accurately, maintain proper records, file returns, and pay taxes without enforcement pressure.

Adamu said that voluntary compliance reduces the cost of enforcement, strengthens public trust, ensures revenue stability, and fosters national development.

“It is the opposite of coercive tax collection and thrives in an environment of fairness and transparency,” he added.

He further outlined key benefits of voluntary compliance, including attracting investments, reducing tax evasion, and promoting a shared sense of responsibility between the state and its citizens.

“Voluntary tax compliance is not just a legal duty; it is a patriotic act and a demonstration of faith in the nation,” Adamu concluded.

Also speaking at the event, Mr Ishaku Ankama, Senior Manager, Government Business Office, Kaduna FIRS, provided practical tips on improving compliance, starting with accurate registration and clear communication of obligations by both tax authorities and taxpayers.

He maintained that voluntary compliance strengthens social stability and contributes directly to economic growth.

“By adhering to tax regulations, individuals and businesses avoid penalties and increase the integrity of the tax system,” he said.

Ankama emphasised that timely tax payment and ongoing compliance were essential to building a more effective and equitable tax regime.

“Paying taxes as and when due is the only path to a better tax system and a prosperous economy,” he concluded.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, Alhaji Abdulgafar Alabelewe, expressed appreciation to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and its consortium partners for organising a capacity building training for journalists on voluntary tax compliance

He also assured FIRS of their readiness to partner with them in ensuring tax compliance by enlightening the public on the importance of tax compliance

Supreme news reports that the sensitisation programme ended with a strong call for enhanced media tax authority collaboration to ensure accurate tax messaging and increased civic engagement.

The participants pledged to amplify tax related conversations in their respective media platforms as part of their national duty.