FIRS explains DGFiP MoU, assures Nigerians of data protection
Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
Nike Popoola
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has dismissed concerns circulating online over its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France’s Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP), stressing that the agreement does not grant France access to Nigeria’s taxpayers’ data or digital infrastructure.
In a statement issued on Monday, the revenue agency said it observed recent commentaries, including a letter attributed to the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), raising questions about the MoU, but described the concerns as based on misconceptions.
FIRS explained that the MoU is a standard international cooperation framework designed strictly for technical assistance, knowledge exchange, and capacity building, in line with global best practices among tax administrations.
“The MoU does not give France access to Nigerian taxpayers’ data, digital systems, or any part of our operational infrastructure,” the agency stated.
According to FIRS, all Nigerian laws governing data protection, cybersecurity, and national sovereignty remain fully in force and are strictly enforced under the agreement.
The agency added that national security and the protection of taxpayers’ information remain top priorities for both the FIRS and the emerging Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).
FIRS noted that similar cooperation agreements are routinely signed by tax authorities worldwide to enhance institutional capacity, improve service delivery, and strengthen governance frameworks.
It described France’s DGFiP as one of the world’s most advanced tax administrations, with over a century of experience in digital transformation, public finance management, and taxpayer services.
“This partnership is advisory, non-intrusive, and entirely under Nigeria’s control,” the statement said, adding that the MoU merely enables Nigeria to learn from international best practices without ceding control of its systems.
Addressing fears about the displacement of local technology firms, FIRS clarified that the agreement does not involve the provision of technical services or outsourcing of operations.
The agency reaffirmed its continued collaboration with Nigerian technology companies such as the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), Interswitch, Paystack, and Flutterwave.
The MoU, FIRS said, is limited to institutional strengthening, workforce development, policy support, and best-practice guidance.
While welcoming public engagement on tax reforms, the agency urged stakeholders to base discussions on the actual content and intent of the agreement.
FIRS maintained that the MoU ultimately strengthens Nigeria’s sovereignty by supporting the development of a modern, efficient, and globally competitive tax administration.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and partnerships that support Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.
