Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on the Federal Government (FG) to publicly release the full details of the recently signed tax administration agreement between Nigeria and France.
The agreement, signed on December 10, 2025, involves the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and France’s tax authority, and has sparked public concern due to the undisclosed terms and objectives of the deal.
Obi emphasized that while international expertise can be valuable in strengthening tax systems, any agreement affecting Nigeria’s revenue generation must be transparent, clearly justified, and accessible to the public.
Peter Obi: “The public has a right to know the details of any agreement that impacts national revenue. Transparency is essential to maintain trust, particularly given Nigeria’s existing tax capacity and economic challenges.”
He stressed that proper disclosure would reassure citizens, improve tax compliance, and strengthen confidence in government negotiations with foreign partners.
The deal between Nigeria and France reportedly aims to enhance tax administration efficiency and tackle cross-border tax issues. However, limited information about the agreement has led to speculation and scrutiny among policymakers, civil society groups, and the general public.
Experts note that agreements involving tax administration, revenue sharing, and international cooperation can have long-term economic implications, making transparency critical for fiscal accountability and governance.
Obi highlighted that Nigeria’s existing tax infrastructure faces challenges, including low compliance, revenue shortfalls, and systemic inefficiencies. He argued that international collaborations must be aligned with domestic priorities and should not compromise Nigeria’s sovereignty or fiscal interests.
Analyst: “International partnerships can strengthen tax collection, but the terms must be clear, equitable, and publicly accountable to avoid misunderstandings or public mistrust.”
Peter Obi’s call underscores the need for transparency and accountability in agreements affecting national revenue. Publishing the Nigeria-France tax administration agreement would help reinforce public confidence, safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests, and ensure informed discussions on future international collaborations.
