In a significant move aimed at further strengthening Nigeria’s accounting and tax framework, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) on Tuesday inaugurated a dedicated chapter within the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, saw the President of ICAN, Davidson Alaribe, charging officers of the newly formed chapter to uphold the high ethical standards that the profession is known for.
Speaking at the event, Alaribe underscored the importance of the ICAN chapter at FIRS, noting that the tax agency is the largest employer of chartered accountants in Nigeria. With more than 2,800 out of the 66,000 chartered accountants in the country currently working at FIRS, the agency plays a pivotal role in the economic development of Nigeria. Alaribe commended the leadership of Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS Chairman, for his transformative work in ensuring the agency’s vital role in generating revenue for the three tiers of government, which in turn supports the financing of major national projects.
Alaribe expressed his full support for the new chapter, emphasizing the importance of fostering engagement among members to build a strong foundation and elevate the profile of the ICAN-FIRS chapter. The initiative, he added, will play a crucial role in continuing the growth and impact of the accounting profession in Nigeria.
Representing Adedeji at the ceremony, Dr. Dick Irri, the Coordinating Director of the Medium Taxpayers Group at FIRS, also lauded the establishment of the ICAN chapter and urged the officers to maintain the highest levels of professionalism and ethical standards in their work. Adedeji, a Fellow of ICAN himself, spoke about the critical role chartered accountants play in the operations of FIRS, which he described as “dear to him in many ways.” He praised the efforts of ICAN members within the agency, noting that their work sets a high standard for others to follow.
The event was further marked by the acceptance speech of Dr. Josephine Onyia, the pioneer chairperson of the ICAN-FIRS chapter. Onyia thanked Adedeji and the FIRS management for their endorsement and support, promising to foster a culture of lifelong learning and professional development within the chapter. She emphasized the crucial role that chartered accountants play in maintaining financial integrity, advancing economic development, and promoting trust in Nigeria’s business community.
The leadership of the ICAN-FIRS chapter includes Mrs. Adenike Adegoke as Vice-Chairperson, Abdurauf Aderemi as General Secretary, Mrs. Patricia Ofili as Treasurer, and Mr. Aduka Borr as Publicity Secretary, among other officers. The chapter is poised to make significant strides in advancing the profession and supporting Nigeria’s revenue collection efforts.
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