The Federal Inland Revenue Service has called for the integration of tax literacy into the Nigerian school curriculum to build a culture of voluntary tax compliance from an early age.
The Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr Zacch Adedeji, made the call in a speech read on his behalf by his Special Adviser on Research and Statistics, Associate Professor Aisha Hamman, during the launch of the book “Taxation: Essential Knowledge for Nigerian Children” held in Abuja to mark Nigeria’s 2025 Children’s Day on Tuesday.
In the speech, Adedeji said, “Taxation is the lifeblood of any nation. It funds education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security services that shape the quality of life for every citizen. Yet, tax education has been confined to boardrooms and policy circles, leaving the younger generation unaware of their role in nation-building.
“We need to create awareness among our younger ones because it is easier for younger children to become tax compliant when they grow up than reform tax-dodging adults. When you raise children who are tax compliant, of course, you expect them to hold those in government accountable.
“When they are taught and there are subjects on taxation at primary and secondary school levels, by the time they reach the universities, they have already known about that civic duty. So, it would not be students of accounting who will know a lot about taxation.”
He explained that the newly launched book aims to simplify complex tax concepts into lessons children can understand, fostering “a culture of tax compliance early, ensuring that the Nigeria of tomorrow is built by citizens who understand, appreciate, and willingly contribute to national development.”
The FIRS identified awareness, education, research, and voluntary compliance as pillars of an effective tax system
Adedeji’s speech highlighted ongoing initiatives, including Tax Clubs in schools and Youth Tax Workshops, stating, “When children learn about taxation, they grow into informed citizens who understand how taxes work and are empowered to demand accountability. They grow to become responsible taxpayers who appreciate that taxes are not a burden but a collective investment in Nigeria’s future.”
He urged educators to integrate tax education into curricula and called on government and private sector partners to collaborate in distributing the book nationwide through reading sessions, competitions, and awareness campaigns.
Addressing the children present at the event, the FIRS chairman said, “You are the nation’s future and the architects of Nigeria’s prosperity. The knowledge you gain from this book will empower you to make informed decisions, hold leaders accountable, and contribute meaningfully to the development of our country, Nigeria.”
FIRS’ push for tax literacy in schools aligns with its broader strategy to improve voluntary tax compliance and expand Nigeria’s tax base, critical for funding government services and national development.
The event was also graced by former FIRS Executive Chairperson, Mrs Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, who applauded the initiative, stressing the need for openness and accountability in tax collection and use.
Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, technical adviser for broadcast media to the FIRS chairman and co-author of the book alongside Ejiura Haruna, said the launch marked a bold step in introducing Nigerian children to the fundamentals of taxation, promoting early financial literacy and civic responsibility.
Atoyebi disclosed that over 50,000 copies of the book have already been printed and will be distributed free of charge to schools, libraries, and universities across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
