The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Zacch Adedeji, has reached out to Mr. Ola Olukoyede, his counterpart at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), seeking collaboration to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda initiated by President Bola Tinubu, who appointed them to their respective roles.
During a courtesy visit to the headquarters of the EFCC, Mr. Adedeji highlighted the crucial role of the EFCC in ensuring the judicious utilization of taxpayers’ funds in alignment with the social contract between the government and the people. He emphasized the FIRS’s commitment to generating revenue essential for funding the operations of the federal government.
Recognizing the vital roles played by both FIRS and EFCC in ensuring fiscal stability and combating financial crimes in Nigeria, Mr. Adedeji expressed the need to sustain and, where necessary, expand the synergy between the two agencies. He underscored the significance of collaboration, especially in addressing local and transnational illicit financial flows facilitated by technological innovation.
Mr. Adedeji sought the continued support of the EFCC in tracking and reporting on financial transactions involving companies, multinationals, and high-net-worth individuals. He highlighted the FIRS’s reliance on third-party data, information, and intelligence from sister agencies like the EFCC to enhance compliance, enforcement, and prosecution of tax evaders.
Expressing confidence in Mr. Olukoyede’s capabilities as an erudite lawyer, seasoned public administrator, and anti-corruption expert, Mr. Adedeji solicited the EFCC’s assistance in data sharing to bolster intelligence gathering and investigations.
In response, the EFCC Chief congratulated Mr. Adedeji on his appointment, appreciating the visit and extending best wishes for a successful tenure. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust symbiotic relationship between both agencies and suggested a review of existing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to strengthen collaboration further.
