The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening tax policy development and enhancing the capacity of tax administrators across West Africa. The agency’s chairman, Zacch Adedeji, made this known in Abuja on Tuesday at the opening of the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) Country Correspondents’ Conference, held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel.
Adedeji emphasized that a well-structured tax policy is essential for economic growth, as it enhances domestic revenue mobilization and ensures sustainable development. According to him, efficient tax administration directly benefits both governments and citizens by providing the necessary resources for public services and infrastructure.
A statement issued by his media adviser, Dare Adekanmbi, highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing role in international tax cooperation and regional partnerships. Adedeji noted that the country has played a key role in supporting WATAF through technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives for member nations. He stressed that Nigeria remains committed to fostering regional collaboration to address common tax administration challenges.
“Nigeria has always been at the forefront of promoting regional tax cooperation, recognizing the importance of collective efforts in overcoming shared obstacles. Through our continuous support for WATAF, we have helped shape policies that enhance tax systems across West Africa,” he stated.
He further encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, build stronger professional networks, and apply the insights gained from the conference to improve their respective tax systems. According to him, effective tax administration requires continuous learning and adaptation to global best practices.
Adedeji also commended WATAF for creating a platform that fosters collaboration among West African tax administrators. He noted that by working together, countries in the region could enhance revenue generation, reduce reliance on external funding, and drive sustainable economic growth.
The WATAF Country Correspondents’ Conference serves as a key gathering for tax administrators in the sub-region, providing an opportunity to share experiences, discuss emerging challenges, and explore strategies for improving tax collection and policy implementation.
