FIRS Commits to Investing in Education as Young Nigerians Drive Tax-Reform Conversations

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) says it remains committed to funding education and building the next generation of tax-literate citizens, highlighting the role of young Nigerians in shaping the country’s fiscal future.

This was the central message delivered by Mohamed Adaya Salisu, Chief Economic Adviser to the FIRS Chairman, at the 2025 National Essay Competition held on Wednesday, November 26, in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Salisu said the agency views education and human-capital development as critical pillars of national growth.

ALSO READ: Would the FG Deduct Taxes Directly From Your Bank Account? Maybe

“The future is bright. The FIRS is committed to funding education and human-capital development, which are crucial for Nigeria’s growth,” he said, linking the service’s outreach to its broader tax-reform agenda.

Salisu praised participants' intellectual curiosity, noting that young Nigerians are increasingly engaging with issues in tax administration, public finance, and economic reforms.

The competition, which focused on the theme "Write the Future," tasked students with exploring how tax reforms can help build a stronger Nigerian economy.

Vincent Maduka emerged as the overall winner, while Loveson Anselm and Ogunleye Ayomide finished as first and second runners-up, respectively.

Organised by Foluso Sylvanus Ojo, publisher of the Abuja City Journal, the event sought to spotlight academic excellence and counter what Ojo described as an “imbalance” in how Nigerian youth are celebrated.

“Our youth should be celebrated for their intellectual achievements,” Ojo said, recalling the moment he watched a top student receive a token payout while entertainers were awarded millions. “That realisation propelled this competition.”

Anselm, a medical student from the University of Jos, said participating in the competition reshaped his understanding of Nigeria’s fiscal direction.

“I took the chance, researched deeply on tax reforms, and it paid off,” he said.

“What I discovered is that the intention behind these reforms is genuine. If fully implemented, they will positively impact Nigeria’s fiscal health.”

His remarks echoed concerns raised at the event about misinformation and political distortions surrounding government revenue policies.

Guest speaker Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi delivered a reality check on Nigeria’s challenges but also underscored the country’s massive potential, driven by its youthful population.

ALSO READ: How Nigerian Businesses Can Now Pay Taxes More Easily

As the event wrapped up, participants were encouraged to remain active in public policy discourse and to view education as a tool for long-term empowerment.

“Education is not a scam; it pays,” Anselm said, urging his peers to prioritise learning over social-media narratives.

The FIRS reaffirmed its intention to continue supporting such initiatives, positioning young Nigerians at the centre of the country’s evolving tax reform story.