By Erewunmi Peace

Zacch Adedeji, executive chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), has urged African countries to mobilise domestic resources and curb illicit financial flows (IFFs) to drive development across the continent.

Speaking at the 5th African Union (AU) sub-committee on tax and illicit financial flows in Abuja on Tuesday, Adedeji highlighted that tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance are major obstacles to funding essential infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social protection programs.

He stressed that strengthening tax systems, improving regional cooperation, and cracking down on illegal financial activities are crucial for Africa’s economic growth and sustainable development.
According to reports, Africa loses billions of dollars annually due to illicit financial flows — money that could otherwise support the continent’s development goals.

Adedeji called for a collective effort among African nations to stop these outflows and ensure resources remain in the continent to fund much-needed projects.