The face-off between global tax advisory firm KPMG and the Federal Government over Nigeria’s new tax laws appears to have cooled, following a high-level meeting in Abuja on Monday.
KPMG representatives were hosted by the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, amid recent public disagreements over the Nigeria Tax Act (NTA). The meeting came after days of exchanges triggered by KPMG’s review of the new tax laws, in which the firm described the reforms as containing gaps, errors, and contradictions.
The Federal Government had earlier pushed back strongly, insisting that KPMG misunderstood the intent and structure of the reforms. This sparked further debate within policy and business circles over the credibility and readiness of the new tax framework.
However, according to a statement issued by the NRS after Monday’s meeting, the tone of engagement shifted significantly. The visit, described as a courtesy call, saw KPMG executives commend Adedeji for his leadership and the pace at which the new tax laws are being implemented.
The statement noted that the firm’s “initial apprehensions have been significantly allayed,” with KPMG acknowledging that the reforms are both necessary and timely. The executives also pledged continued professional engagement with the NRS in support of effective tax administration and broader economic growth.
“The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji, today received a delegation of top management from KPMG on a courtesy visit,” the statement read in part, adding that the discussions helped clarify concerns raised earlier.
The meeting signals a softening of positions after weeks of tension and suggests a willingness on both sides to engage constructively as the country rolls out one of its most ambitious tax reform agendas in recent years.
With implementation already underway, stakeholders will now be watching closely to see how collaboration between government and professional bodies like KPMG shapes the success of the reforms and their impact on businesses and the wider economy.
