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Groups Apologise To FIRS Chairman, Admits Corruption Allegations Against Adedeji Unfounded

Published

11 months ago

November 10, 2025

…Groups commend his exceptional leadership and reforms at FIRS

Joel AJAYI

A coalition of nine Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has tendered a public and unreserved apology to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, after new findings and clarifications cleared him of all allegations of corruption, money laundering, and abuse of office earlier circulated during a protest.

The apology followed a recent protest by the Coalition of Anti-Corruption Civil Society Organisations for Development (COCSOD) at the National Assembly, where the group had accused top FIRS officials of financial misconduct. After a thorough review and verification of their claims, the coalition acknowledged that the allegations were unfounded and based on unverified information.

In a joint statement issued in Abuja, the leaders of the CSOs expressed deep regret over the embarrassment caused to Dr Adedeji, his family, and the FIRS as an institution, noting that the earlier protest was misguided.

The statement was jointly signed by: Dr. Emeka Mbonu, President, Organisation of Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria; Chief (Mrs) Osondu Chinelo, Convener, Citizens Right International; Dr. Oluaseun Ayotomiwa, National Coordinator, Advocacy for Good Governance; Amb. Eyitayo Olukayode, Coordinator, Centre for Leadership and Educational Development; Hajia Zainabu Mohammed, Convener, Africa Patriotic Development Mission

Others are, Dr. Usman Aliyu Yahaya, Executive Director, Zero Tolerance and Anti-Corruption Network; Princess Doubra Abadi-Ingobo, Coordinator, Network Against Poverty in Africa Campaign; Eduvie Samuel Efe, Executive Director, Campaign Against Corruption International; and Comrade Otokpa Echechofu Philip, Convener, Network for Advancement of Democracy in Africa.

“We have now confirmed that the information we relied upon during the protest was inaccurate and not properly verified,” the coalition stated.

“We sincerely apologise to Dr Zacch Adedeji for any harm, embarrassment, or misunderstanding caused by the claims in the protest statement. We equally commend his exemplary leadership, integrity, and the reforms he has championed at the FIRS.”

Since assuming office over two years ago, Dr Zacch Adedeji has repositioned the Federal Inland Revenue Service as a model of transparency, innovation, and professionalism. His tenure has been defined by visionary reforms, fiscal discipline, and the digital transformation of Nigeria’s tax system.

Under his leadership, the FIRS has consistently surpassed its revenue targets. In 2023, it generated ₦12.36 trillion against a target of ₦11.55 trillion, and in 2024, the agency collected ₦21.7 trillion, exceeding its ₦19.7 trillion projection. Between September 2023 and August 2025, the Service realised ₦46 trillion in total tax revenue, representing 115 per cent of its combined targets.

These achievements were driven by innovative reforms, enhanced staff productivity, and the introduction of technology-driven tax solutions that improved compliance and reduced leakages.

Under Adedeji’s leadership, the FIRS launched several digital tools, including TaxPro-Max, e-Invoicing, and USSD tax payment services, automating over 80 per cent of manual processes and simplifying taxpayer engagement.

He also introduced the National Single Window Project, which harmonises government revenue processes and enhances trade facilitation at ports. In addition, the creation of One-Stop-Shop offices nationwide has improved accessibility and reduced bottlenecks for taxpayers.

Dr Adedeji’s management style is anchored on service, accountability, and inclusion. He prioritises taxpayer satisfaction, vendor relations, and staff welfare, creating a culture of transparency and excellence within the Service.

“We are committed to fair tax administration through responsive and accessible service to optimise revenue for national development,” Dr Adedeji has consistently affirmed.

Beyond meeting revenue goals, Dr Adedeji has focused on increasing Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio from 10.8 per cent to 18 per cent, aligning it with the African average. His administration has also strengthened non-oil revenue streams, reduced dependence on crude oil, and enhanced the country’s economic resilience through data-driven fiscal strategies.

The coalition appreciated Nigerians for their understanding and reaffirmed its dedication to promoting accountability and justice. It also pledged that its future advocacy efforts would be guided strictly by verified and factual information.

“We now clearly recognise that Dr Adedeji’s leadership of the FIRS has been one of integrity, innovation, and excellence. We hereby withdraw our earlier claims in their entirety and extend our sincere apology to him and the institution he leads,” the statement concluded.

As Dr Zacch Adedeji continues his reform-focused stewardship at the FIRS, many Nigerians and development stakeholders have commended his tenure as a shining example of effective public service and transparent governance.

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Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran

Published

15 hours ago

October 1, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.

In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.

According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.

“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.

The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.

The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.

“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.

Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.

The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.

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