Nigeria’s drive to modernize its tax administration has received a significant boost as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) formalized a cooperation agreement with France, aimed at enhancing revenue systems, boosting digital capacity, and improving cross-border tax compliance.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed at the French Embassy in Abuja by FIRS Executive Chairman, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, and the French Ambassador, Marc Fonbaustier. The agreement establishes a framework for institutional collaboration between FIRS and France’s Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP).
Arabinrin Aderonke, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the FIRS Executive Chairman, said the partnership signals Nigeria’s commitment to building “a system that works, earns trust, and makes citizens feel their contributions matter.”
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The collaboration will focus on modern tax administration practices, digital transformation, and staff capacity development. Aderonke highlighted that the MoU reflects Dr. Adedeji’s commitment to practical transformation, emphasizing that reform “is about how work is done, not just what is done.” She added that FIRS is prioritizing functional digital tools for faster processing, clearer communication, and improved compliance.
A key aspect of the partnership involves the exchange of expertise. French officials will share insights from operating a mature tax administration, including professional standards, training programs, and workforce management, while Nigeria will demonstrate its adaptability and the resilience of its youthful workforce.
The MoU also addresses emerging global tax issues such as transfer pricing, cross-border taxation, and information exchange elements Aderonke described as essential for any modern economy. The agreement offers Nigeria a platform to align with international best practices while safeguarding national interests.
Aderonke stressed that the collaboration is designed as “conversation, experimentation, and shared curiosity” rather than a hierarchical relationship, crediting Dr. Adedeji for his proactive leadership and hands-on approach, which she said is already producing positive results for taxpayers.
“This is another step toward something good,” she concluded, noting that Nigerians are increasingly seeing the system working effectively for them.
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