The Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has defended the newly introduced tax laws, saying the reforms are designed to simplify tax administration, reduce the burden on citizens and businesses, and support sustainable economic growth.

Speaking in an interview, Adedeji said the new tax regime, which took effect on January 1, 2026, represents the most significant fiscal reform since Nigeria’s independence. 

According to him, the reforms are anchored on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to eliminate multiple taxation, promote business growth and “tax prosperity, not poverty” 

He explained that the transition from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to the Nigeria Revenue Service is not merely a change of name, but a comprehensive institutional upgrade. 

The reform, he said, harmonises over 60 fragmented tax laws into a single framework, modernises tax administration and strengthens the use of technology and data intelligence in revenue collection. 

Addressing widespread public concerns, Adedeji dismissed claims that the new laws would lead to arbitrary deductions or intrusive monitoring of bank accounts. 

He said such fears are based on misinformation, stressing that the intent of the reform is to make compliance easier and more transparent for taxpayers 

On the introduction of the development levy, the NRS chairman clarified that it is not a new tax, but a consolidation of existing earmarked taxes such as education and security levies. 

He said this consolidation is meant to simplify compliance and help businesses plan better, while ensuring sustained funding for national development priorities. 

Adedeji also highlighted relief measures for ordinary Nigerians, noting that essential items such as food and transportation are exempt from transactional taxes. 

He added that low-income earners would benefit from improved personal income tax brackets, with significant reductions compared to the old tax system. 

Responding to calls for the suspension of the new tax laws, the revenue chief said such demands have no basis in a democratic setting. 

He explained that once a law is passed by the National Assembly and assented to by the President, it remains in force unless set aside by a court of law, warning that suspending tax laws would cripple government revenue and economic stability. 

He acknowledged criticisms from stakeholders, including professional firms, but said constructive engagement remains ongoing. 

According to him, feedback and dialogue are part of the process of refining implementation and ensuring the reforms achieve their intended goals. 

Adedeji assured Nigerians that the NRS would continue public education and engagement, urging citizens and businesses to assess the new tax laws based on facts rather than rumours. 

“This reform is about taxing right, not taxing more,” he said, adding that Nigerians would begin to see its benefits as implementation progresses.