The Federal Inland Revenue Service has signed a landmark agreement with France to modernize Nigeria’s tax administration through digital transformation, capacity development and improved cross-border enforcement.
FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji and the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, signed the memorandum of understanding on behalf of both countries as announced on Wednesday.
The agreement, signed at the French Embassy in Abuja, brings FIRS into a formal working partnership with France’s tax authority, Direction Générale des Finances Publiques, one of Europe’s most technologically advanced revenue agencies.
France is among the global leaders in digital tax reforms, having deployed advanced e-filing systems, algorithm-driven compliance tools and real-time data analytics in its tax administration.
How Pact Would Work
The FIRS chairman listed digital transformation as a central pillar of the pact, noting that Nigeria aims to leverage France’s experience in automated compliance systems, data-driven audits and taxpayer service platforms.
According to him, France stands to benefit from Nigeria’s rapid digital expansion, its youthful and tech-savvy population, and the innovative solutions emerging from Africa’s largest market.
“This two-way exchange is essential as both countries adapt to emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence deployment, cybersecurity and cross-border taxation,” Adedeji said.
Adedeji highlighted workforce development as another strategic area of collaboration, stating that Nigeria hopes to adopt France’s structured human capital systems, professional standards, and continuous learning culture.
“We also anticipate strong bilateral cooperation in international taxation, exchange of information, transfer pricing, and Base Erosion and Profit Shifting BEPS – related work,” he added.
“As economic activities become increasingly borderless, the ability of both our institutions to collaborate, share intelligence and harmonise approaches will be crucial,” Adedeji noted.
The Federal Government is banking on improved digital systems, unified tax administration, and stronger international cooperation to raise revenue without imposing new taxes.
The Tax Act reforms aim to expand the tax base, simplify compliance, improve transparency, and align Nigeria’s tax laws with global standards, especially given the rise of the digital economy, cross-border business and modern financial instruments.