Prioritize Transformation Of Existing Structures, CJN Tells FIRS

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kekere-Ekun admonished the Federal Inland Revenue Service ( FIRS) to prioritize the transformation of existing infrastructure over the implementation of advanced technological innovations.

She gave the advice on Monday at The opening ceremony of the High Impact Interactive Conference with Justices and Judges, organized by the Service in partnership with the National Judicial Institute (NJI)

She noted that While this conference is crucial for building crucial capacity and deepening our understanding of sector-specific issues like taxation, “it does not replace the duty of the relevant agencies to diligently perform their responsibilities and, where necessary, make adjustments to their processes.”

Going forward she declared that “I strongly encourage the Federal Inland Revenue Service to fast-transform its existing structures before seeking to implement advanced technological innovations.”

Kekere-Ekun cautioned that “adjudication is often dependent on the thoroughness of the institution presenting cases before the court.”

The CJN noted that “it is becoming increasingly evident that aligning with digital innovation is no longer optional but necessary.”

She lamented that “Nigeria benefits from international structures, Yet, despite these advantages, there remain significant gaps between global tax strategies and Nigeria’s domestic tax framework, particularly in the context of the digital economy. Thus, this conference aims to explore ways to bridge those gaps while preventing the integrity of Nigeria’s domestic tax system.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of the FIRS Dr Zacch Adedeji represented by Muhammad Lawal Abubakar, the Coordinating Director, Services Support Group stated that “for our tax system to be effective, it requires the unwavering support and integrity of our judiciary.”

The judiciary Adedeji said “serves as the guardian of justice and fairness in our society. Your role in interpreting tax laws, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring compliance is critical in fostering a climate of trust in our tax system.

“By upholding the rule of law and delivering fair judgments, you reinforce the confidence of the citizens and businesses alike, encouraging them to fulfil their tax obligations” he told the Justices and Judges gathered.

Speaking to journalists at the end of the opening ceremony, Muhammad Lawal Abubakar reiterated that this year, the FIRS would meet its target of N19.4 trillion.

He disclosed that “We expect that by the year 2025 government might decide to maybe increase the target a bit. So we have to get prepared.”

To this end, “the conference is one of such areas that we look out in getting ourselves prepared for next year where so many things will come on board, including the new laws that are expected to be enforced from January 2025.”

He then added, “The purpose of this conference is to leverage the role of the judiciary in the Nigerian tax system.”