Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Zacch Adedeji, has emphasized the need for collaboration between FIRS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to effectively track and report local and trans-border financial transactions involving companies, multinationals, and high-net-worth individuals. Adedeji made this call during a visit to Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the Chairman of the EFCC, at his office in Abuja recently.
In a statement released by Dare Adekanmbi, the Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, Adedeji highlighted the evolving nature of socio-economic activities, noting the transition from traditional structures to a digital and knowledge-driven economy.
He stressed that such a shift requires increased collaboration and data sharing between relevant agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and investigation capabilities.
Adedeji solicited the EFCC’s support in terms of sharing data that could aid FIRS in monitoring financial transactions effectively. The call for synergy between the two agencies is seen as a strategic move to address specific challenges arising in the contemporary economic landscape.
In response to Adedeji’s proposal, Olukoyede, the EFCC Chairman, expressed gratitude for the visit and acknowledged the importance of a collaborative approach.
He suggested a review of the memorandum of understanding between FIRS and EFCC, particularly focusing on operations in units such as the tax fraud section and joint tax force. This proposed review aims to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of joint initiatives to combat financial crimes and enhance tax compliance.
