Tax reforms boost Nigeria’s revenue to N21.6trn in H1 2026 — Uba Sani

Nigeria's federal revenue surged to N21.6 trillion in the first half of 2026, marking a substantial jump from earlier years, according to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani. Speaking at the 160th meeting of the Joint Revenue Board in Kaduna, Sani highlighted the impact of recent tax reforms initiated under President Bola Tinubu's administration. The reforms, which have been central to discussions during the board's meetings, have led to a 49 percent increase in revenue compared to the same period in the previous year. The revenue figures reflect a steady upward trend, with Nigeria recording approximately N10.1 trillion in 2023, followed by N21.6 trillion in 2024 and about N36.8 trillion in 2025. These numbers underscore the effectiveness of the reforms, which have been framed as a bold and necessary shift towards a more modern and efficient tax system. Sani emphasized that the reforms were driven by the need to replace an outdated and fragmented revenue structure with one that is coherent, predictable, and supportive of national development. President Tinubu's administration has taken significant steps to overhaul the country's tax framework, culminating in the transformation of the former Joint Tax Board into the Joint Revenue Board. This legislative change aims to streamline operations and enhance the efficiency of revenue collection. Sani lauded the president for his commitment to these changes, calling them politically challenging yet essential for economic progress. Central to the success of the reforms has been the leadership of Mr. Zach Adedeji, the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service. Sani noted that Adedeji's contributions extend beyond technical expertise, highlighting his ability to align the reform efforts with the broader goal of improving revenue mobilization. His leadership has played a crucial role in ensuring that the new system is both simpler and more transparent for taxpayers. In addition to federal-level reforms, local initiatives have contributed to the overall improvement in revenue collection. For instance, the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), under the guidance of Mr. Jerry Adams, has managed to increase the state's internal revenue from around N4 billion to N10 billion monthly. This achievement demonstrates how localized efforts can complement national strategies to bolster financial sustainability. Sani pointed out that the tax reforms were designed to address several key issues within Nigeria's economic landscape. These include simplifying the complex tax environment, reducing redundant taxation, leveraging technology and e-invoicing to curb leakage, and enhancing the coordination among different revenue authorities. The reforms also aim to restore trust between the government and its citizens, emphasizing that sustainable taxation requires fairness, transparency, and mutual respect. The governor stressed that the ultimate goal of these reforms is not just to collect more money, but to create a system where compliance is easier, enforcement is smarter, and participation is voluntary. Kaduna State's approach through KADIRS exemplifies this vision, focusing on technological innovation, workforce professionalization, and enhanced taxpayer engagement. By prioritizing these elements, the state seeks to build a revenue system that is not only robust but also equitable and enduring. Looking ahead, Sani expressed optimism about the continued growth of domestic revenues and the potential for these gains to support national development. The emphasis on expanding the tax base rather than increasing the burden on existing taxpayers reflects a strategic shift towards inclusive and sustainable economic practices. As Nigeria continues to refine its tax policies, the focus remains on creating an environment where both government and citizens benefit from a well-functioning and trusted revenue system.