The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has called on Nigerian youths to actively participate in tax matters, stating that the ongoing tax reforms under President Bola Tinubu's administration are designed with their best interests in mind.

Speaking at a Town Hall meeting jointly organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership (OSSAP-CL) and FIRS on Wednesday, Adedeji emphasized the importance of youth understanding taxation as both a fiscal tool and a social contract.

"The Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognizes the immense potential of Nigeria's youth and is actively working to empower them," said Adedeji, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Research and Statistics, Associate Prof. Aisha Mahmoud Haman.

He added, "President Tinubu is a leader who listens and cares genuinely about the youth."

Youth as Present Leaders, Not Just Future Ones

Ms. Rinsola Abiola, Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, who was also present at the event, explained that the tax reforms driven by President Tinubu are specifically focused on empowering, supporting, and building a better economic future for young Nigerians.

Abiola emphasized that the reforms were crafted in the best interest of the country and would support young professionals, business owners, and salary earners. She was emphatic that young people should no longer be considered merely as "leaders of tomorrow" but should actively participate in shaping the economic policies of government for a robust future.

"By fostering entrepreneurship and job creation, young people contribute to expanding the tax base and generating revenue for national development," she stated.

Supporting Youth Development Through Tax Reforms

According to the Presidential aide, part of the reasons for the tax reforms was to support youth initiatives, including funding for startups, digital skills training, and reforms aimed at easing the cost of doing business.

The Town Hall meeting represents a significant effort by the federal government to engage young Nigerians in understanding how tax policies affect their economic prospects and how their participation can contribute to national development.

This initiative aligns with the broader economic reform agenda of the Tinubu administration, which has emphasized the need for expanded tax compliance and a more efficient tax system to drive sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.