Taxation: FG Lauds Tribunal’s Role in Trust Building, Voluntary Compliance

*As tribunal resolves 901 disputes in 6 years

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The federal government has commended the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) for its role in building trust in the country’s tax system. This followed the resolution of 901 disputes involving the federal, states, organisations and individuals by the tribunal in the last six years.

According to the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Tax Appeal Tribunal plays a critical role in fostering a culture of fairness, transparency, and trust in Nigeria’s tax system.
Speaking during a send-forth ceremony in honour of retired chairmen and commissioners of the Tax Appeal Tribunal, who served from 2018 to 2024, the minister described the tribunal as a cornerstone for promoting fairness and efficiency in resolving tax disputes.

Uuzoka-Anite commended the out-gone chairmen and commissioners for their invaluable contributions, dedication and service towards the development of Nigeria’s tax administration and tax dispute resolution framework.
She stated, “The contributions of those we honour today – their wisdom, professionalism, and steadfast commitment have elevated the tribunal into the respected institution it is today.

“You have been instrumental in shaping a more equitable tax environment, not just through your rulings and decisions, but through your unwavering dedication to justice and service to the nation.”
The minister added, “The unwavering dedication and expertise by our honourees have helped uphold the integrity of our tax system, instilling confidence in taxpayers and fostering a culture of voluntary compliance.”

While acknowledging the complexities and challenges involved in tax administration, Uuzoka-Anite stated that the former chairmen and commissioners, through their hard work and leadership, made a significant difference.
According to her, the honourees, over the years, demonstrated exceptional commitment to justice by not only resolving complex disputes but also strengthened trust in the system.
She said, “This trust is the bedrock upon which we can continue to build a robust and inclusive tax culture that supports the development goals of our country.

“Your tenure was, indeed, marked by remarkable milestones that have left an indelible impact on the tribunal and its mission. Your efforts have paved the way for a future where tax justice continues to be administered with the same fairness and integrity that you so passionately upheld.
“Your departure marks the end of an era, but the legacy of your contributions remains and will continue to inspire those who come after you.”
Earlier, Coordinating Secretary of the Tax Appeal Tribunal, Mrs. Anita Erinne, said the retired chairmen and commissioners throughout their careers, upheld the values of fairness and justice, often under challenging circumstances and with a deep sense of responsibility.

“Each one of them contributed to the growth of the tribunal with grace, courage. Because of them, TAT stands stronger, and our mission to ensure just, speedy and accessible tax justice is more firmly rooted,” she said.
Chairman South-east Zone, Tax Appeal Tribunal, Mr. Chukwuemeka Eze, disclosed that between June 2016 and November 2018, so many cases were in the cooler, hence, they commenced work immediately to turn things around.
Eze said, “So, when we came, we began to hear those cases and in cases that requires making orders in favour of the government, we did and those ones that does not require orders for the federal and state governments we did.

“A lot of monies were recovered during our time both in local and foreign currencies and it’s a major achievement to the economy.”