The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has offered partnership opportunities to tertiary institutions, highlighting the agency’s readiness to support universities as incubators of innovation tackling real-world problems.

Dr. Adedeji made the announcement while delivering the 2025 Distinguished Lecture at the University of Ilesa, Osun State, on the theme “Economic Resilience in an Era of Dwindling Revenue.” He outlined Nigeria’s current financial status and practical solutions for building a resilient economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Highlighting reforms at FIRS, Adedeji cited automation and digitization, tax base modernization, state collaboration for tax harmonization, and public trust initiatives. He emphasized diversifying the economy beyond crude oil to sectors such as agro-processing, digital economy, creative industries, and solid minerals.

“The task of building economic resilience does not rest on government alone. Academics and other stakeholders must conduct research that provides solutions to contemporary challenges,” he said. He added that FIRS is ready to collaborate with universities on joint research, tax policy innovation hubs, and projects on revenue mobilization and digitization.

Adedeji encouraged students to think critically, build institutionally, and serve patriotically. He also paid tribute to Prof. Taiwo Asaolu, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa and his former lecturer at Obafemi Awolowo University, for personally supporting him during his undergraduate years, including funding his ICAN final examinations and defending him against a cheating accusation.

“This is why Professor Asaolu is not just my lecturer; he is my father,” Adedeji declared, drawing applause from the audience of students, lecturers, and government representatives.

Prof. Asaolu welcomed guests, noting that the lecture series provides a platform for discourse on pressing national and global issues while seeking sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges.