New Staff Recruited Through Merit, Not Favouritism - FIRS

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has officially welcomed a new group of professionals into its workforce, following what it described as a transparent and merit-based recruitment exercise.

Conducted under the agency’s ‘Work With Us’ initiative, the recruitment process has been widely praised for its fairness and openness, with many viewing it as a new standard for hiring in the Nigerian public sector.

Speaking during the induction ceremony at the FIRS headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Chairman, Dr. Zachs Adedeji, said the newly recruited staff represent the future of the agency and will play a key role in transforming it into a more efficient, people-focused institution.

“This is more than just a job offer,” Adedeji told the new recruits. 

“It is the beginning of a journey that involves personal growth and national development. Your skills, integrity, and dedication will determine how far we go as an institution and as a country.”

The recruitment involved a thorough digital screening process and online interviews conducted by 10 separate panels. 

Candidates were selected strictly on merit, with emphasis on competence, character, and readiness for public service.

Dr. Adedeji stressed that the ongoing reforms within FIRS are guided by three core principles: People, Processes, and Technology—with human resources being the most vital. 

According to him, while technology enhances performance, it cannot replace capable and committed personnel.

He also noted the agency’s broader evolution from being solely a tax collection body to becoming a vital component of Nigeria’s economic stability. 

He encouraged the new staff to approach their roles with a mindset of innovation and service.

Quoting a Yoruba proverb, he reminded them of the value of human development: “A child not well-educated will sell the house that was built.”

Also speaking at the event, Collins Osagie Omokaro, Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy, echoed the Chairman’s message, describing the recruits as partners in building the future of the agency and, by extension, the nation.

The induction programme will provide training in tax administration, ethics, the use of digital tools, and the strategic objectives of the FIRS 2025 Roadmap.