I The 50-member Tax Appeal Commission constituted to handle disputes on tax issues has been inaugurated.
The newly appointed Commission was inaugurated by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Performing the inauguration, the Minister highlighted the crucial role of members of the Commission in support of Nigeria’s economic reforms and enhancement of revenue generation.
He said the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) was important in the effort by the government to ensure fair and efficient adjudication of tax disputes.
This, he pointed out, was essential for creating a conducive environment to attract investment and foster a business-friendly environment.
Reducing tax evasion, the Minister noted, was vital for maintaining trust in Nigeria’s tax system and ensuring adequate funding for national development.
“While tax avoidance remains legal, tax evasion must be curtailed to ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s tax system,” he said.
On Nigeria’s improving economic indicators, Edun noted the recent indices of stabilising inflation, declining food prices, and rising crude oil production capacity.
These positive developments, he said, we’re demonstrations of significant progress by the present administration aimed at placing Nigeria on a sustainable path of growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Earlier, the Minister of State (Finance), Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite said the tax tribunal was a key mechanism in the tax justice system, as it would ensure the balancing of the interest of government in revenue generation with taxpayers’ rights and protection.
She called on the members of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) to bring their wealth of experience to bear in order to ensure the realization of the policy objectives of government
Responding, the Tax Appeal Tribunal Commissioner/Chairman, Aderibigbe Adedeji, assured that members would bring their wealth of experience to bear in discharging their duties, while also thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity given to them to serve the nation in that capacity
The inauguration comes as part of the Federal Government’s broader tax reforms designed to increase revenue for critical sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
The formal inauguration, conducted under the powers granted by the Federal Inland Revenue Service Establishment Act 2007, reinforces the government’s commitment to strengthening institutions that are essential for Nigeria’s economic transformation.
With the inauguration of the Tax Appeal Commissioners, Nigeria takes a significant step towards a more robust and efficient tax system, paving the way for increased revenue generation and sustainable economic growth