The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has unveiled a grassroots radio sensitization programme aimed at simplifying tax education and boosting compliance among Nigerians across all walks of life, from market traders to tech entrepreneurs.

At the launch event held in Abuja on Friday, May 23, top FIRS officials stressed that taxation was not just a civic obligation but a vital contributor to everyday public services.

Dr Abdullahi Ismaila, Director of the Communication and Liaison Department, emphasised the need to break down complex tax processes for informal and underserved sectors.

“The average market woman needs to understand what Tax Pro Max is. She needs to know how to get a Tax Clearance Certificate and understand e-invoicing,” he said, highlighting the technical issues the agency plans to simplify using radio broadcasts in local languages and Pidgin.

“We’re counting on radio service providers to help raise the level of awareness,” he said, adding that feedback from listeners would shape future content.

On her part, Dr Loveth Ononuga, Director of Taxpayers’ Service Department, responded to scepticism about whether taxes are truly serving the people.

“You drove on a road to get here. Did the road just make itself? It’s taxpayer money,” she said emphatically.

She explained that salaries of police officers, military equipment, and even hospitals are funded by taxes.

According to her, many citizens overlook the visible outcomes of their contributions.