News Editor
From Dooshima Terkura Makurdi
The Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zach Adedeji said taxes, when properly harnessed and managed, become a catalyst for growth.
According to him, they enable the federal government to invest in critical infrastructure, public services, and policies that support agriculture, mining, trade, and enterprise.
The FIRS Chairman gave this ascertain in Makurdi the Benue state capital while addressing participants in Makurdi at the FIRS Day at the 12th Benue National Trade Fair, 2025 organized by the Benue Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BECCIMA).
Adedeji who was represented by the Director Taxpayer Services Department, Mrs Lovette Ononuga, encouraged the Nigerian public to pay their taxes to contribute their quota to nation building.
He stated that officers from the organization would commence education of business owners, farmers, and entrepreneurs on the various tax incentives designed to ease the burden for growing their businesses.
He said the sensitization has become necessary because”We understand that for many small and medium businesses, the word “tax” can sometimes feel like a burden.
“This is why our departmental theme for the month, “Breaking Down Tax Incentives and Reliefs” is so timely. We want to demystify taxes. We want to help you see them not just as obligations, but as opportunities.
According to him, from pioneer status incentives to tax reliefs for agriculture-related investments, there is something to support almost every sector.
He appreciated the organizers of the event and all the hardworking taxpayers of Benue State and beyond who have continued to support national development through voluntary tax compliance.
He said this year’s Trade Fair theme “Industrialization and Commercialization of Benue Agriculture and Solid Minerals as Panacea for Growth” resonates strongly with their work at the FIRS.
“Benue, fondly known as the Food Basket of the Nation, holds vast potential not only in agriculture but also in untapped solid minerals. To fully unlock this potential, there must be deliberate efforts to build sustainable businesses, attract investment, and foster industrial growth. And that is where the role of taxation becomes essential.”
He said “When taxes are properly harnessed and managed, they become a catalyst for growth, enabling the federal government to invest in critical infrastructure, public services, and policies that support agriculture, mining, trade, and enterprise.
The Chairman honoured over 12 companies for tax compliance at the event including Pure Biotic Company Limited, TitoPlastic Nigeria Limited, Trutech Engineering Consult and Services Ltd, Tilley Gyafo and Co Ltd, Smile-View Hotel Nig Ltd, Palm Garden Hotel Makurdi, Wisdem Hotel Gboko among others.
While applauding them for being tax compliant he further described them as “true nation builders,” saying “Your contributions make it possible for the federal government to fund roads, schools, hospitals, and other services that benefit us all.
He urged every business owner and aspiring entrepreneur in the state and Nigeria as a whole to see FIRS not as an enforcer, but as their partner for growth.
Speaking, the Tax Controller (CT) Emerging Tax Office (ETO) Makurdi, Mrs Rose Ben-Ugoh sensitized participants on Emerging Tax Matter, the FIRS recognizes the crucial role that Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) play in the Nigerian economy.
She said as part of strategic initiative to broaden the tax base and improve voluntary compliance, FIRS has established the Emerging Tax Group (ETG) to address the unique needs and challenges of Micro and Small Taxpayers, particularly those in the informal sector.
“By simplifying compliance and actively engaging with the informal sector, FIRS is not only improving revenue collection but also fostering a culture of voluntary tax compliance and economic formalization,” she said.
BECCIMA President, Dr Mhir Aii Iyenge, appreciated FIRS for their encouragement and partnership saying BECCIMA is poised to ensure tax compliance and business growth in Benue.
