Nigeria tax reforms should safeguard taxpayers while ensuring fair revenue distribution across all levels of government, according to the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Dr Mohammed Shehu.
Shehu made the remarks while receiving a delegation from the Joint Revenue Board led by its Executive Secretary, Olusegun Adesokan, during a courtesy visit to the commission in Abuja.
The details were contained in a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit of the commission, Maryam Yusuf.
RMAFC Calls For Transparency And Collaboration
Dr Shehu reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability and fairness in revenue administration.
He stressed that institutions responsible for generating and managing revenue must work closely together to ensure the success of ongoing reforms.
According to him:
“The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission remains committed to promoting transparency, fairness, and accountability in Nigeria’s revenue administration.”
He added that cooperation among stakeholders would help protect taxpayers while guaranteeing equitable revenue allocation nationwide.
Reforms Must Strengthen Public Confidence
The RMAFC chairman said the commission would continue to support government efforts aimed at boosting revenue generation.
He also emphasised the need for compliance with existing laws governing revenue sharing.
According to Shehu, policy harmonisation and institutional cooperation remain critical to achieving the goals of the reforms.
He noted that issues relating to tax refunds, revenue allocation and electronic transfer taxation require continuous discussions.
Shehu said:
“The commission is committed to supporting measures that enhance compliance, improve transparency, and foster public confidence in the nation’s tax administration framework.”
He expressed confidence that stronger cooperation among revenue agencies and governments would improve fiscal efficiency over the next five to six years.
Joint Revenue Board Seeks Stronger Partnership
Earlier, Joint Revenue Board Executive Secretary Olusegun Adesokan said the visit aimed to deepen cooperation between both institutions.
He explained that effective coordination is essential for implementing the new tax framework successfully.
According to Adesokan, the reforms are designed to promote fairness and transparency while providing clearer revenue-sharing mechanisms.
He noted that the framework would benefit taxpayers, government institutions and the country’s fiscal stability.
Adesokan also acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders over stamp duties, electronic money transfer levies, tax refunds and advance tax payments.
However, he assured Nigerians that consultations and technical engagements would continue.
He added that the board remains committed to ensuring that revenues are properly allocated to states and that taxpayers receive fair treatment.
Tax Ombud Urges Taxpayers To Seek Redress
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s first Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Tax Ombud, Dr John Nwabueze, urged individuals and businesses facing unfair tax assessments to seek redress.
Speaking during a breakfast meeting with finance correspondents and media executives in Abuja, Nwabueze said the office was established to provide an independent platform for resolving tax disputes.
He explained that taxpayers previously lacked a neutral institution where they could challenge unfair treatment by tax authorities.
According to him, the new office would help address cases involving multiple taxation and disagreements with revenue agencies.
Stakeholders Reaffirm Commitment To Reform
At the end of the meeting, both organisations pledged to strengthen cooperation and improve revenue administration.
They also committed to promoting taxpayer protection and ensuring the successful implementation of ongoing reforms.
Officials believe sustained collaboration and taxpayer education will improve compliance and increase revenue generation across the country.
Nigeria tax reforms should balance efficient revenue collection with the protection of taxpayers’ interests, according to the RMAFC.
As discussions continue, stakeholders are seeking to create a transparent and fair tax system that supports fiscal stability and national development. Continued cooperation among institutions will be crucial to achieving these goals.
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