The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for making significant strides in its ongoing reform initiatives aimed at enhancing tax administration in Nigeria.

The commendation was delivered by Paulo Paz, a Senior Economist with the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department, during the opening session of an IMF-supported Headquarters Mission held at the Revenue House in Abuja.

Paz noted that the IMF acknowledges the substantial work FIRS has undertaken under the leadership of Chairman Zacch Adedeji, particularly in providing efficient services to citizens.

He reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to supporting the agency as it continues to drive effective tax administration essential for national growth and development.

A statement issued by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, disclosed that the IMF delegation’s visit aims to identify additional areas where the Fund can assist the agency, especially in light of the recently enacted tax laws.

According to the statement, the new tax laws are expected to bring notable impacts to Nigeria’s fiscal landscape, requiring renewed efforts in implementation and compliance.

Welcoming the IMF delegation, Adedeji represented by his Chief of Staff, Tayo Koleosho expressed appreciation for the IMF’s longstanding partnership with FIRS.

He assured that the collaboration would be sustained as the agency transitions into the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) in 2026.

Adedeji specifically acknowledged the IMF’s support in portfolio management and compliance programme development, which he described as pivotal to the agency’s reform success.

Also speaking, Mrs. Bolaji Akintola, Coordinating Director of the Corporate Services Group, highlighted the IMF’s critical role in FIRS’ journey toward comprehensive tax system reforms aimed at boosting domestic revenue mobilisation.

The IMF mission is expected to continue engagement with FIRS officials over the coming days, as both bodies work toward strengthening Nigeria’s revenue systems