The Minister claims that the tax system will support businesses

The Minister claims that the tax system will support businesses and increase consumer spending.

Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Nigeria's Minister of State for Finance, announced that the country is actively developing a tax administration system aimed at enhancing revenue collection while addressing the concerns of taxpayers.


This statement was made during the TaxADR Roundtable held in Abuja on Thursday, which focused on "Unlocking Revenue and Strengthening Dispute Resolution: A Roadmap to Tax ADR in Nigeria." Represented by Mrs. Ndidi Chineyolum, a director within the ministry, Dr. Uzoka-Anite noted that Nigeria is currently facing the need for significant economic reforms, inclusive growth, and sustainable public financing, all of which necessitate a more innovative approach. She stressed the importance of collaboration in resolving tax disputes, underscoring how this cooperation is essential for establishing an efficient tax administration. "It reflects the core values of a modern, progressive tax system—fostering mutual trust between taxpayers and authorities, ensuring fairness in enforcement, and enhancing administrative processes in dispute resolution. This theme goes beyond mere rhetoric; it prompts us to consider how to improve understanding, minimize adversarial interactions, and cultivate a culture of dialogue and accountability," she explained. The minister called on key stakeholders to develop a system where disputes are settled through consensus rather than prolonged confrontations. She highlighted that as the country works to diversify its non-oil revenue sources, tax compliance remains a crucial yet challenging priority. "The global shift away from dependence on commodities necessitates that Nigeria bolsters its domestic revenue generation to support national development. In recent years, the landscape of tax disputes has become increasingly complex, both in volume and in the challenges posed by evolving business models and regulatory frameworks," she noted. Dr. Uzoka-Anite also pointed out that the adversarial nature of traditional litigation often leads to lengthy resolution periods, rising legal costs, and strained relations between taxpayers and revenue authorities. She concluded by asserting that the current tax regime is not only outdated but also fails to meet the contemporary needs of the nation.