The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has called on Nigerians to view tax payment not as a burden, but as a civic responsibility essential to national development. The appeal was made during a one-day sensitisation programme held in Kaduna on Wednesday, themed “The Role of Media in Voluntary Tax Compliance.”
FIRS Executive Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, represented by his Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, emphasised that tax revenue is the lifeblood of every nation’s progress.
“Taxes are not just government revenue; they are the foundation of growth in our nation,” Adedeji said. “What we need is a culture of voluntary compliance where citizens willingly fulfil their civic duty because they see the benefits and trust the system.”
He stressed that tax revenues fund critical public infrastructure and services—such as hospitals, schools, roads, and security—which directly impact the lives of citizens. However, he acknowledged that many Nigerians still perceive taxation as punitive rather than purposeful. He added that building trust in public institutions and improving transparency are vital to encouraging voluntary compliance.
Adedeji also highlighted the critical role of the media in shaping public perception, building trust, and promoting tax literacy. “When the media educates, investigates, and holds leaders accountable, it builds trust. A citizen who believes in the fairness and transparency of the system is more likely to comply,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Atoyebi described journalists as educators and influencers who play a central role in inspiring civic responsibility. She urged the media to help bridge the information gap between taxpayers and the government.
In a paper titled “Voluntary Tax Compliance: A Pathway to Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” Dr Mohammed Adamu described taxation as the most dependable source of government revenue. He defined voluntary compliance as a taxpayer’s willingness to declare income, file accurate returns, and pay taxes on time without enforcement.
“Tax revenues fund our roads, schools, hospitals, and security. A compliant taxpayer is a stakeholder in national progress,” Adamu said. He stressed that voluntary compliance reduces enforcement costs, promotes patriotism, and enhances investor confidence.
