Tax Reform: Oyedele Rules Out Consultants for Nigeria’s Tax Collection

Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Policy and Fiscal Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has categorically stated that Nigeria will not engage Alpha-Beta Consulting or any other consultant for tax collection under the ongoing tax reform initiatives.

Speaking during a town hall meeting hosted by Channels Television on the proposed tax reform bills, Oyedele addressed public concerns about outsourcing tax collection, specifically referencing Alpha-Beta, a consulting firm known for its work with the Lagos State government.

“In fact, we had a very interesting debate at the committee level. I wanted to put a language in the law that says no government should use a consultant to collect tax. We think that that is one of the biggest problems in our economy today,” Oyedele stated.

He emphasized that outsourcing tax collection has been a significant obstacle to economic growth in Nigeria, adding, “I can confirm to you 100 percent there is no plan whatsoever in using consultants to do any of this.”

Oyedele assured the public that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is fully equipped to handle tax collection efficiently, thanks to its robust TaxPro Max platform.

According to him, only minor adjustments will be needed to align the system with the proposed reforms.

“All that we need to do once we pass these bills is go to that system and amend the language, the algorithm, so that next time MTN is filing VAT returns, there is a request that says, ‘Tell me the state where they have emanated from,’” Oyedele explained.

He noted that the same approach would be applied to other major corporations, such as Dangote Group and financial institutions, ensuring compliance and effective tax collection without external assistance.

The town hall meeting also explored broader implications of the tax reform bills.

Oyedele clarified that the reforms are designed to simplify tax administration and increase compliance without introducing undue burdens on taxpayers or relying on third-party consultants.

The reliance on consultants for tax collection has been widely criticized for undermining government efficiency and accountability.

Oyedele’s assurance aligns with the committee’s commitment to enhancing transparency and strengthening the government’s tax collection capabilities.

Stakeholders at the meeting urged the government to maintain focus on long-term economic benefits as the tax reform bills progress through legislative procedures.

The proposed changes are expected to create a more robust and transparent tax system, boosting Nigeria’s revenue generation without external interference.

The tax reform debate continues to generate interest, with experts lauding the committee’s resolve to address systemic inefficiencies while ensuring fairness in the implementation of new policies.