Opinion
2024 Recap: How Zacch Adedeji Broke Record Of Tax Administration In Nigeria
By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi
Change is never easy, but it is often necessary. In 2024, Nigeria witnessed a series of reforms that underscored the power of determined and purposeful leadership. Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has redefined the tax sector in Nigeria. His efforts were not merely about adjusting policies; they were about reconstructing a fractured system, ensuring its efficiency, and promoting trust between the government and its people.
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there was a clear mandate for action and progress. Leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda has been about assembling people who are not just capable but also willing to work tirelessly toward Nigeria’s development. Dr. Zacch exemplified this character. From the get-go, he took on the challenge of transforming Nigeria’s tax system. He understood the assignment that leadership is not about holding a position; it’s about making an impact, and he wasted no time in doing so.
The Tax Boss focused on leveraging technology and data to enhance tax collection, achieving a huge reduction in inefficiencies. One of his key projects was the complete modernization of the TaxProMax system, introducing new modules that have automated over 80% of the previously manual processes, improving transparency and service delivery for taxpayers. This has allowed for smoother interactions between the FIRS and various stakeholders, making the tax process more accessible and user-friendly, especially for small business owners.
Alongside this technology, Dr. Zacch has made an effort to expand Nigeria’s tax base. Traditionally, the country’s revenue has disproportionately relied on the oil sector. Still, with global oil prices being volatile and unpredictable, he understood that Nigeria’s financial stability would require a much more pool of tax revenue. He worked to bring more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into the tax system by offering them support and incentives. This helped businesses that might have otherwise been left out to join the system and contribute to the country’s revenue. His approach made it easier for SMEs to pay taxes, ensuring they could be part of the system and grow within it.
This 2024, FIRS exceeded its N19.4 trillion revenue targets by a long margin, far surpassing the N12.3 trillion revenue collection for 2023. This speaks volumes about the effectiveness of Dr. Zacch’s reforms. His leadership has turned FIRS into a high-performing agency, one that is now regarded as a major player in driving Nigeria’s economic recovery and growth.
The Tax Boss has developed policies that cater to Nigeria’s economic realities. For instance, his insistence on a fair tax system that does not burden the poor while ensuring that wealthier people and corporations contribute fairly has helped redefine tax equity in Nigeria. His approach, which prioritizes fairness, has made the system more inclusive, encouraging more people to pay taxes without feeling overburdened. This strategy is necessary for ensuring that the government has the resources it needs to invest in infrastructure, social services, and other projects that will drive Nigeria’s long-term growth.
One of Dr Zacch’s legacies for 2024 is his push for transparency and accountability. He introduced the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). This was designed to eliminate corrupt practices within FIRS, ensuring that the tax administration process is conducted with the highest standards of integrity. This step aligns with his broader vision for an equitable tax system that emphasizes prosperity rather than burdening the disadvantaged. His philosophy “We tax the fruit, not the seed” has shaped the direction of tax reforms, making the system fairer and more accessible.
To enhance Nigeria’s global trade standing, he introduces the National Single Window Project (NSWP) to simplify trade and improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business. This initiative aims to integrate Nigeria’s tax and trade systems, ensuring that businesses can interact with the government through a single, streamlined portal. The benefits of the NSWP are extensive, as it helps reduce red tape, improve efficiency, and make Nigeria more competitive in the global marketplace.
His role as the President of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) has had an impact on Nigeria’s tax administration. Under the Tax Boss, CATA has become a platform for tax administrations across the Commonwealth to exchange ideas and best practices.
Beyond operational reforms, the Tax Boss has focused on improving the welfare of FIRS employees, understanding that a motivated workforce is necessary for the success of any organization. He has supported and eased staffs’ levelling up processes, and other welfare programs, resulting in a more committed and energized workforce. His leadership style, which combines compassion with insight, has created a positive work environment at FIRS.
The 2024 Tax Reform Bill 2024 is one of the most anticipated legislative pieces. It has successfully passed the second reading in the Senate. This bill aims to overhaul the country’s fragmented tax laws by consolidating them into a more unified and transparent framework. One of the objectives of this reform is to simplify the tax compliance process, which has long been seen as overly complex and discouraging for businesses. By streamlining tax laws, the bill is designed to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, thereby making it easier for businesses, particularly SMEs, to navigate tax and invest in growth. Additionally, the bill is set to introduce measures that will promote tax compliance and fairness, ensuring that all sectors of society contribute fairly to the national revenue.
Another component of the proposed reforms is the establishment of tax tribunals and a tax ombudsman. These entities will provide a formal, transparent mechanism for resolving tax disputes, which have often been a source of frustration for taxpayers. Moreover, the proposed Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill aims to replace the outdated FIRS Act, ushering in a more contemporary framework that can better address the challenges of the modern economy.
Once the Tax Reform Bill is passed and implemented, it will simplify Nigeria’s tax system by reducing taxes. People earning up to the minimum wage will no longer pay income tax, and small businesses with annual turnover under ₦50 million will be tax-exempt. The corporate tax rate will gradually decrease, and there will be a new system to ensure that double taxation is eliminated. VAT on essentials like food, healthcare, and education will remain exempt, while states will get a larger share of VAT revenue to support their development.
This year has been about far more than just increasing revenue, it has been about setting Nigeria on a path toward fiscal independence and resilience. For the Tax Boss, the journey is far from over. While progress has been made in transforming Nigeria’s tax system, there are still challenges to overcome.
He is committed to ensuring that all the reforms are fully implemented across the country, and this will require the government to keep pushing forward and maintain the momentum already built. The Tax Boss has laid a solid foundation for a tax system that will benefit Nigeria and its people, and we are all here for it, eagerly watching as the impact continues to unfold.
Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service.
Opinion
Setting the Record Straight: Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac, Known as Hajiya Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, Responds to Allegations of Land Grabbing, Intimidation, Property Fraud, and Document Forgery
It is with profound sadness and emotional pain that I respond to the relentless and false allegations leveled against me, my family, and my business. These accusations, most recently published on December 23, 2024, by Sahara Reporters under the headline “How Nigerian Police Authorities Protect ‘Notorious Abuja Landgrabber’ Bilikisu Aliyu Accused of Intimidation, Property Fraud, Document Forgery,” have caused immense distress to me and those who depend on me. These claims are completely unfounded and represent a deliberate attempt to destroy everything I have worked so hard to build. Today, I must share my story to clear the air and appeal to the public’s sense of justice and fairness.
The Facts of the Property Acquisition
I, Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac, known as Hajiya Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, I am a realtor, who entered into this transaction not as a realtor but as a person who desire a place to live with my family and as such entered into this property purchase in good faith with one Mr. Richard Idakwogi John, the CEO and Managing Director of Rychado Homes Limited. Having done business with Mr. Richard for years, I had no reason to doubt his professionalism or integrity. I trusted him completely when he presented me with original documents for the property—Plot 4022 in Guzape District, Abuja—and I proceeded to purchase it. I paid in full for the property, intending to create a home for myself and my family.
It was a dream come true for my husband, my children, and me when we moved into the property. It became our sanctuary, a place filled with love, joy, and the promise of a bright future. However, despite my genuine intentions and the transparency of this transaction, the Yesufu family has continued to spread falsehoods and make defamatory claims against me, tarnishing my image and attempting to destroy everything I have worked so hard to build.
Mr. Richard himself has admitted in front of witnesses, including my colleague and business partner Ugochukwu Nnam, who is also a business partner to Mr. Richard, that I paid for the property in full. This admission was also made during meetings with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which were attended by:
• Olanipekun Olukoyede, EFCC Chairman
• Abdulkareem Chiko, Director of Investigations
• EFCC Staff: Paul, Ahmed, and Bashir
• Pastor Isaiah Yesufu, a member of the Yesufu family and Pastor at RCCG Throne Room, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja
I have purchased multiple properties from Mr. Richard in the past without any issues. It is heartbreaking that what was supposed to be a legitimate transaction has turned into a weapon used to harass and intimidate me. The constant attacks have not only affected my business but have also put my family’s peace and safety at risk.
A Track Record of Integrity and Credibility
I want to categorically state that I am not a privileged individual relying on influence or favoritism to acquire property. My father is not a royal highness in the North, nor do I have any connections to grant me undue access to land. Every piece of land I own was legitimately purchased, paid for in full, with proof of payment and witnesses to every transaction.
I challenge anyone to inquire about my company, Homadil Realty Ltd, or me, Hajiya Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, anywhere in Nigeria or beyond. No one can truthfully claim that we have ever defrauded them. Over the years, I have built my integrity and credibility to the highest standard, and I stand firmly by my reputation.
Furthermore, neither I nor Homadil Realty Ltd has ever been allocated land. We do not have any insider connections or employees working at AGIS (Abuja Geographic Information System). All the properties we own were purchased through legitimate means, backed by proper documentation and credible witnesses. These facts reflect the principles of transparency and fairness that I, my family, and my company uphold at all times.
My Efforts to Resolve the Dispute
Although I am an innocent party in this matter, I have taken proactive steps to resolve the dispute amicably. Out of goodwill, I offered compensation to the Yesufu family, even though I bear no responsibility for the issues surrounding the property. Regrettably, these efforts were outrightly rejected. Their refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue and their insistence on pursuing a campaign of harassment and defamation suggest that their intent is not justice but rather my personal and professional downfall.
The Role of the Yesufu Family
I am deeply saddened and troubled that members of the Yesufu family, who know the truth about this matter, have remained silent while Abdul Rahman Yesufu continues to lead a campaign of false allegations, harassment, and defamation against me, my company, and my family. Among them are Isaiah Yesufu, Coleen Mero Yesufu, Maimunatu Yesufu, Nurudeen Yesufu, and Khadijah Iye Yesufu. Their silence in the face of this injustice is both heartbreaking and disappointing.
It is even more troubling that Abdul Rahman Yesufu has refused to attend EFCC meetings and interviews to address this matter. Only his brother, Isaiah Yesufu, showed up to these meetings, further emphasizing how Abdul Rahman is taking this issue personally and avoiding resolution. Instead of engaging constructively or seeking the truth, he has resorted to posting malicious publications while hiding behind a façade of anonymity. After his most recent defamatory publication on December 23, 2024, he fled to the United Kingdom, leaving behind a trail of hurt and damage. This is nothing short of cowardly behavior—refusing to face the issue, refusing to settle, and instead hiding while continuing to stir up trouble.
They know the truth, and so does he. Why would they stand by and watch as a fellow human being—a woman, a mother, and a hard-working entrepreneur—is subjected to such cruelty? Does Abdul Rahman Yesufu not have sisters or daughters? Would he allow anyone to treat them this way? Would the rest of the family watch in silence if the roles were reversed?
I appeal to their sense of justice and humanity. I urge them to reflect on their actions—or lack thereof—and the harm they are allowing to unfold. Let us act with fairness, compassion, and respect for the truth.
A Coordinated Vendetta by the Yesufu Family
This matter has gone far beyond a property dispute. It has turned into a coordinated and targeted vendetta led by Abdul Rahman Yesufu to tarnish my name, destroy my business, and intimidate my family.
As a young woman striving to succeed in the male-dominated field of real estate, I have faced countless challenges, but I have persevered. These recent attacks feel like an effort to tear me down simply because I have worked hard and achieved success. Why would anyone want to destroy a woman who is tirelessly working to build a better future for herself, her family, and the community? These actions are not just hurtful; they highlight a troubling aspect of our society where hard-working individuals are targeted simply for trying to succeed.
The Arrest of My Husband
The harassment I have faced extends beyond baseless allegations. My husband was unjustly arrested by the EFCC and detained for two weeks. This baseless detention was a deliberate attempt to intimidate me and tarnish our family’s reputation. It is appalling that innocent individuals can be targeted and detained in the name of personal vendettas. This experience has caused us immense emotional and psychological distress.
I must ask: How can we build a society where people can manipulate systems of power to harm others for personal gain? These actions have not only violated my rights but have also shaken my faith in the systems meant to protect law-abiding citizens like myself.
Addressing the Allegations
- Land Grabbing and Property Fraud Allegations:
I purchased the property in good faith, trusting the professionalism and reputation of Mr. Richard Idakwogi John, who provided me with all necessary documentation. These allegations are false, malicious, and defamatory, designed solely to discredit me and harm my business. - Document Forgery Allegations:
At no point have I engaged in the forgery of any documents. All documentation was provided by Mr. Richard Idakwogi John, and I acted in full trust based on the information he presented. The claim of forgery is baseless and intended to destroy my reputation. - Intimidation Allegations:
I categorically deny any claims of intimidation. On the contrary, I have been the victim of intimidation, harassment, and cyberbullying, as evidenced by the repeated defamatory publications and my husband’s unjust detention. - Matter Is Currently in Court:
It is important to note that this matter is currently before the court. I believe in the rule of law and trust the judicial system to deliver a fair and just outcome. I urge all parties to respect the judicial process and allow the courts to do their job without interference.
Confidentiality Breach Amidst Ongoing Legal Proceedings
I am deeply pained and concerned that while this matter is still in court, members of the Yesufu family have taken it upon themselves to release privileged documents and sensitive information to the public. These actions are not only an attack on my reputation but also a violation of my fundamental rights to fairness and justice, as guaranteed by Section 36(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
Despite enduring the emotional toll of these false accusations, the deliberate public dissemination of confidential materials by the Yesufu family has heightened my distress and jeopardized my safety. It is clear that these actions are part of a continued effort to tarnish my name and destroy my business. The law is explicit: the Evidence Act 2011 strictly regulates how documents are handled in legal matters. The premature release of such documents is not just unlawful but also a direct attempt to influence public perception and harm me further.
I appeal to the Yesufu family and all involved to respect the ongoing legal proceedings and refrain from actions that further harm me, my family, or my business. I believe in the justice system and trust that the courts will deliver a fair and impartial judgment. Let us allow the law to take its course without interference or undue exposure.
A Call for Justice and Fairness
I appeal to the public and the authorities to judge this matter based on facts, not sensationalized and misleading reports. I am a woman striving to succeed in an industry dominated by men, and I should not have to endure this level of harassment and defamation.
Is it right for someone to engage in cyberbullying and repeatedly expose me to public ridicule? Are we now living in a society where people can attack others with impunity? These malicious actions are not just an attack on me; they harm my family, my business, and the people who depend on my work for their livelihoods.
Conclusion.
This case is already in court and as we all know, when a case is in court, parties are expected not to discuss the strength of their case or the weakness of the other parties case.
I know with time the judiciary will put all these issues to rest judiciously.
I therefore urge the general public to
Disregard any negative news concerning me or my business, it is an act of mischief makers, who does not have respect for the rule of law.
In conclusion, I, Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac, known as Hajiya Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, remain steadfast in my belief in justice, fairness, and the truth. I am confident that the courts will deliver a fair judgment and that my name will be cleared.
I thank everyone who has supported me during this challenging time, and I appeal to the public to see the truth behind these attacks. Let us uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and integrity, and allow the courts to ensure that justice prevails.
A Call to Action for the Media
Finally, I respectfully request that all media outlets, including Sahara Reporters, retract the false and defamatory claims made against me and give me an opportunity to present my side of the story. Let us stand together for truth and fairness, and protect the dignity of every individual.
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