The recently concluded Lagos International Trade Fair served as a strategic platform for the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to reinforce its taxpayer-focused mandate and promote voluntary tax compliance across Nigeria.
During the FIRS Special Day at the fair, the Director of the Taxpayer Services Department, Dr. Lovette Ononuga, represented the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, in leading a robust engagement with individual and corporate taxpayers. The highlight of the day was the recognition and celebration of Nigeria’s most tax-compliant organisations, nominated by their respective tax offices for outstanding compliance.
The 10-day fair provided a unique opportunity for the FIRS to deepen public understanding of tax policies, processes, and services. Coordinated by Hajia Ameenat Oluwa, Head of TEEU (South), and her team, the FIRS pavilion welcomed thousands of visitors and served as a one-stop centre for taxpayer education, registration, and resolution of tax-related issues.
Key objectives achieved at the fair include:
- Enhancing voluntary compliance through public enlightenment;
- Raising awareness about recent tax reforms and obligations;
- On-site registration of new taxpayers and business owners;
- Real-time handling of complaints, inquiries, and disputes.
In recognition of excellence in tax compliance, FIRS presented awards to six top-performing corporate taxpayers:
- Nigeria LNG Limited
- Total Upstream Nigeria Ltd.
- Dangote Cement Plc
- Guinness Nigeria Plc
- Citibank Nigeria Limited
- MTN Nigeria Communications Plc
These companies were applauded for their consistent fulfillment of tax obligations, transparency, and support for national revenue generation.
Dr. Ononuga reiterated the FIRS’s commitment to building a tax system anchored on trust, efficiency, and fairness, noting that “a nation’s development is sustained by a culture of tax compliance.” She called on all businesses and individuals to take advantage of FIRS platforms for seamless tax processes.
The Lagos International Trade Fair, organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), remains Nigeria’s largest marketplace, drawing participation from over 200,000 visitors and businesses locally and internationally.
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