Abuja: Nigeria is building a tax administration that will be effective in revenue mobilisation and also responsive to challenges faced by taxpayers. The Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, emphasized this initiative at the TaxADR Roundtable, themed ‘Unlocking Revenue and Strengthening Dispute Resolution: A Roadmap to Tax ADR in Nigeria’. The minister, represented by Mrs. Ndidi Chineyolum, a director in the ministry, highlighted the need for a progressive tax system that fosters mutual trust and administrative efficacy in resolving disputes.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister underscored the importance of collaboration in resolving tax disputes, which captures the essence of building an efficient tax administration. She stated, “It speaks directly to the fundamental values that underpin a modern progressive tax system, mutual trust between taxpayers and the authority, procedural fairness in enforcement and administrative efficacy in resolving disputes.” The minister expressed the necessity for stakeholders to create a system where disputes are resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation.
The minister noted that as Nigeria strives to broaden its non-oil revenue base, tax compliance remains both a strategic priority and a persistent challenge. She pointed out that the adversarial nature of traditional litigation often results in prolonged resolution times, escalating costs, and strained relationships, thereby delaying revenue collection and creating uncertainty within the tax equity play.
The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, also emphasized the need to expand Nigeria’s revenue base through taxation while enhancing compliance and building public trust. Represented by Oloyede Hussein, Special Adviser to the President on Arbitration, Drafting and Resolution, Fagbemi advocated for a tax culture rooted in fairness, dialogue, and accountability, highlighting the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in fostering these values.
Mr. Lateef Yusuff, the Founder and Convener of the TaxADR roundtable, noted that the gathering was designed to embed ADR into Nigeria’s tax landscape. He cited recent reforms in Nigeria’s tax legislation and the enactment of the Arbitration and Mediation Act as significant developments providing a strong legal and policy foundation for integrating ADR.
Anita Erinne, Coordinating Secretary of the Tax Appeal Tribunal, expressed commitment to improving access to justice in tax disputes. In her keynote address, she stressed the impact of tax disputes on government revenue, citizens’ livelihoods, and business fortunes. Erinne also acknowledged the Federal Inland Revenue Service’s role in championing a more responsive and modern tax system, highlighting its commitment to reforms and digital transformation.
