Zacch Adedeji, a prominent Nigerian accountant and public servant, has emerged as a central figure in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the realm of fiscal policy and revenue generation. Serving as the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) since September 2023, Adedeji has been instrumental in advancing the government’s economic reforms.
Background and Education
Born on January 8, 1978, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Adedeji boasts an impressive academic and professional background. He graduated with first-class honors in Management and Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and later earned a Master of Science in Accounting from the same institution. Furthering his expertise, he completed an Executive Course in Economic Development at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. In 2023, he obtained a Ph.D. in Accounting from OAU .
Career Trajectory
Adedeji’s career spans both the private and public sectors. He began his professional journey at Procter & Gamble (P&G), where he held various managerial roles, including Corporate Finance Manager for West Africa. Transitioning into public service, he served as the Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State from 2011 to 2015, implementing strategic financial frameworks. Subsequently, he was appointed as the Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), where he established the Nigeria Sugar Institute .
Role at FIRS
In September 2023, President Tinubu appointed Adedeji as the Acting Executive Chairman of FIRS, following the retirement of Muhammad Nami. His appointment was confirmed by the Nigerian Senate in October 2023 . Under his leadership, FIRS achieved a record tax revenue collection of ₦12.374 trillion in 2023, surpassing its target, and set an ambitious goal of ₦19 trillion for 2024 .
Recognition and Commitment
Adedeji’s efforts have garnered national recognition. In July 2024, he received the Award for Fiscal Reforms and Innovation at the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS), acknowledging his contributions to public service and fiscal reforms . He has pledged continued support for President Tinubu’s economic revitalization initiatives, emphasizing the importance of sustainable revenue generation for national development.
With his extensive experience and commitment to fiscal excellence, Zacch Adedeji remains a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s economic landscape, driving reforms aimed at enhancing revenue mobilization and public sector efficiency.
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