Northern Elders Forum Urges Immediate Termination of FIRS-France Tax MoU

Northern Elders Forum Urges Immediate Termination of FIRS-France Tax MoU

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called for the immediate termination of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the French tax authority, Direction Générale des Finances Publiques. The forum argues that the agreement poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s economic sovereignty and national security

The NEF expressed concerns that the MoU would compromise Nigeria’s economic independence and place its fiscal future at risk. The forum noted that France’s historical engagements in Africa have often resulted in economic manipulation, political pressure, and long-term dependency, urging Nigeria not to repeat past mistakes made by other African nations .

The NEF also highlighted the national security risks associated with the agreement, citing the potential for foreign control over Nigeria’s tax data. The forum quoted Dr. Segun Adebayo, a national advocate on data protection and fiscal independence, who warned that allowing foreign control over taxpayer data is a threat to national security .

The NEF has urged the Federal Government, Senate, and House of Representatives to terminate the MoU immediately. The forum emphasized that Nigeria must prioritize its economic sovereignty and national security, particularly in the face of current challenges such as insecurity, economic instability, and high unemployment .

The Northern Elders Forum’s call for the termination of the FIRS-France tax MoU highlights the need for caution and vigilance in Nigeria’s dealings with foreign partners. The agreement has significant implications for Nigeria’s economic sovereignty and national security, and it is essential that the government prioritizes the country’s interests.