Aide lauds FIRS boss Adedeji’s inspiring life journey on 47th birthday

The Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Collins Omokaro, has described the Executive Chairman of the agency, Dr Zacch Adedeji, as a goal-getter who pursued his dreams to become a transformative leader.

Omokaro in a message to celebrate Adedeji’s 47th birthday day, said the FIRS’ journey was inspiring, and described  him as a boy from the quiet village of Iwo-Ate in Oyo State who dreamed beyond the cocoa fields of his community to become

He said against all odds, Adedeji had transformed from being a boy in the quiet village of Iwo-Ate, Oyo State, to a national figure driving transformative reforms across critical sectors.

“From modest beginnings, Zacch charted an extraordinary path defined by academic excellence and steadfast determination.

“A First-Class graduate of Management & Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Adedeji went on to earn a PhD in Accounting and refined his expertise in economic development and public policy at Harvard Kennedy School.

“As the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr Adedeji spearheaded innovative reforms, achieving a staggering increase in tax revenue through digital transformation and citizen-friendly processes. His advisory role to the President on Revenue further cemented his reputation as a strategic thinker, stabilizing Nigeria’s fiscal policies.

“Previously, as Oyo State’s Commissioner for Finance, he introduced the Treasury Single Account, revolutionizing public finance management. At the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), he implemented reforms that fortified Nigeria’s sugar industry.

“As the English proverb goes, “Many hands make light work,” Zacch’s life exemplifies this truth. He has woven networks of trust, collaboration, and innovation that have overcome formidable challenges and driven Nigeria toward progress.

“As he celebrates his 47th birthday, Dr. Adedeji’s life is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and service. From the cocoa fields of Iwo-Ate to the corridors of power in Abuja, his journey inspires us all, proving that dreams pursued with dedication can create profound national impact,” Omokaro said.