The Federal Government is taking decisive steps to widen the tax net and prevent evasion, according to Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
On Monday, the minister inaugurated a 50-member Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT), mandated to resolve tax disputes and boost revenue for critical sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
The TAT will operate across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with offices in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The inauguration follows the expiration of the previous tribunal's tenure in July 2024.
Speaking at the event, Edun highlighted the Tribunal’s role in ensuring fair and efficient tax dispute resolution, which he said would attract investment and create a more business-friendly environment.
“Tax evasion must be curtailed to maintain trust in Nigeria’s tax system and support national development. While tax avoidance is within the law, we must ensure that tax evasion is prevented,” Edun stated.
The inauguration comes as the National Assembly prepares to pass new tax reform bills, which have already scaled second reading. Lawmakers have assured they will be passed for presidential assent before the end of the month.
Edun also noted improvements in economic indicators, including stabilizing inflation, declining food prices, and increased oil production—developments that align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to foster sustainable growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty.
Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, outlined the Tribunal’s objectives, including reducing tax evasion, ensuring fairness and transparency in tax administration, and expediting dispute resolution.
She urged the new commissioners to remain upright and adjudicate cases in line with constitutional provisions.
TAT Coordinating Secretary, Anita Erinne, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, stating that the Tribunal would instill greater confidence in Nigeria’s tax system. She encouraged taxpayers to take advantage of the Tribunal for swift dispute resolution.
A newly appointed commissioner, Aderibigbe Adedeji (SAN), speaking on behalf of his colleagues, thanked the government for the opportunity and pledged to uphold the Tribunal’s constitutional mandate.
The Tribunal’s 50 commissioners include: Soyinka-Onijala Moremi, Amoman Oyedele, Falana Gbenga, Ezeudeka Chukwudi, Ibrahim Amina, Ohagwa Chinyere, Olatunde Odanye, Akinola Akindele, Akwiwu Anne, Adimula Ruth, Olamide Obajimi, Agbeluyi Olushola, Obidegwu Chukwuma, Ogunniyi Iyabode, Ladapo Abimbola, Ajila Balelayo, Yussuf Mojirola, and Oyenuga Adesola, among others.
The Federal Government remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s tax system, fostering compliance, and ensuring the efficient collection of revenue to support national development.
