The Federal Government has unveiled a new approach to resolving tax issues — one that emphasizes dialogue over disputes, aiming to make tax administration fairer, faster, and more effective for both the government and taxpayers.

Speaking at the TaxADR Roundtable in Abuja, themed “Unlocking Revenue and Strengthening Dispute Resolution: A Roadmap to Tax ADR in Nigeria,” Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of State for Finance (represented by Mrs. Ndidi Chineyolum), said Nigeria’s tax system is undergoing reform to better support domestic revenue growth while treating taxpayers with fairness and transparency.

“Resolving tax disputes collaboratively reflects the values of a modern tax system — trust, fairness, and efficiency,” Uzoka-Anite noted.

Why the New Direction Matters

As Nigeria continues to diversify away from oil, increasing non-oil revenue is more urgent than ever. But complex tax disputes have become more frequent — driven by new business models and regulations. The old method of prolonged legal battles is expensive, slow, and discourages investors, the minister added.

Instead, the government is promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) — a method known for reducing costs, preserving relationships, and settling issues quickly.

“We must move from confrontation to cooperation in tax enforcement,” Uzoka-Anite said.

ADR: The Better Way Forward

Also speaking at the event, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (represented by Oloyede Hussein), highlighted that expanding the revenue base through taxation should not rely on force. He emphasized that ADR is a more effective way to build public trust, promote tax compliance, and preserve business relationships.

“ADR supports a fair tax culture, rooted in dialogue and accountability,” Fagbemi said.

Building a Culture of Fairness

Lateef Yusuff, the roundtable’s convener, stressed that Nigeria now has the legal and policy frameworks to support ADR, thanks to recent tax law reforms, the Arbitration and Mediation Act, and the National ADR Policy.

In her keynote speech, Anita Erinne, Coordinating Secretary of the Tax Appeal Tribunal, reiterated the Tribunal’s commitment to accessible and fair tax justice, adding that efficient tax dispute resolution is critical for government revenue, business growth, and citizens’ livelihoods.

She praised the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) under Dr. Zacch Adedeji for supporting these reforms and highlighted the role of digital tools in driving Nigeria’s tax transformation.

“A modern tax system must blend enforcement with collaboration, efficiency, and public accountability,” she said.

✅ Takeaway:
Nigeria is shifting gears to make its tax system smarter and more taxpayer-friendly — using dialogue, not courtroom battles, to settle disputes and drive growth.