A Year of Transformation and Growth for FIRS
As the year draws to a close, it’s a time for reflection and evaluation. This is not just about an organization or individual, but about assessing progress, changes, and what lies ahead. For the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), 2025 has been a remarkable year marked by significant achievements and transformative initiatives.
Under the leadership of Executive Chairman, Dr Zacch Adedeji, FIRS transitioned from planning to action in 2025. One of the most notable developments was the signing of four major tax reform laws. These reforms included the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, which officially transformed FIRS into the Nigeria Revenue Service. This change granted the agency greater autonomy and expanded its mandate to include non-tax revenue.
The reforms also aimed to harmonize fragmented tax legislation, offering clarity to businesses and individuals while strengthening the legal framework of the agency. These changes are more than procedural; they represent a shift towards a more organized and accountable taxation system that supports economic growth while ensuring fairness and predictability for taxpayers.
Record Revenue Collection
FIRS met and even exceeded its revenue targets throughout the year. Between January and August, the agency collected N20.62tn, which accounted for 82% of the N25.2tn target for the year. By September, total collections had increased to N22.59tn, with non-oil revenue forming a significant portion of this amount. Over the two years from October 2023 to September 2025, FIRS recorded a total of N47.39tn.
These figures demonstrate the effectiveness of the combination of reforms, new technology, and a more structured approach to tax administration. The results are a clear indication of the positive impact these efforts have had on the agency’s performance.
Technological Advancements and Process Improvements
Technology played a crucial role in enhancing operations at FIRS this year. The agency launched a national electronic invoicing system for large taxpayers. Companies with an annual turnover of N5bn or more began integrating with the platform, which allows invoices to be reported and validated electronically in real time. This system reduces errors, provides visibility into business transactions, and offers a structured way for companies to meet their tax obligations.
As of December, many large firms had completed integration and were transmitting invoices live through the system. This initiative marks a significant step forward in modernizing tax administration and improving efficiency.
Strengthening Staff Recruitment and Training
FIRS also focused on improving staff recruitment and training. The agency conducted competitive and transparent recruitment processes to bring in new personnel while enhancing staff development and welfare. A happy staff, as the saying goes, is a productive staff. The Tax Boss has built a workforce capable of managing modern tax tools and supporting the agency’s expanded responsibilities across all FIRS offices in every state.
Leadership and Vision
Looking back over the last two years, it is evident that Adedeji’s leadership has significantly improved FIRS. While 2025 stands out as a year of record-breaking revenue, technological advancements, and operational improvements, these achievements are built on the reforms and initiatives he has steadily implemented since 2024. His vision, commitment, and consistent execution have positioned the agency to meet its targets, improve taxpayer services, and strengthen staff capacity, making the successes of this year a reflection of sustained progress over his tenure.
New Era for FIRS in 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, the four Executive Tax Reform Bills signed into law by President Bola Tinubu will take full effect, ushering in a new era for FIRS. These laws, including the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Procedure Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Tax Board Establishment Bill, will streamline tax administration, harmonize regulations, and expand the agency’s mandate.
Nigerians can expect clearer tax procedures, easier access to services, faster processing of TINs and tax clearances, and improved transparency in how taxes are collected and managed. For FIRS, the reforms will enable better use of technology, stronger compliance monitoring, and more efficient revenue collection. The signing of these bills is the culmination of years of planning and sets the stage for a modernized, accountable, and more effective revenue service in 2026.
A Testament to Dedication
The Tax Boss has positioned FIRS for this new phase. His vision, dedication, and ability to combine technology, policy reforms, and people management have strengthened the agency and improved service for Nigerians. The successes of 2025 and the foundation laid over the past two years are a testament to his hardworking spirit. Someone who has a heart is now leading, and we want more of such people in service. It is the right time for him here, and we cannot be prouder.
Nigerians can look forward to 2026 with confidence, knowing that the agency is ready to deliver even more, faster services, greater transparency, and a tax system that truly works for them.
It is a job well done for Dr Zacch Adedeji.
