Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele Says West Africa Must Stop Losing Revenue Through Weak Tax Systems

Finance Minister Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has called for stronger regional collaboration among West African countries to deepen tax reforms, improve compliance with ECOWAS tax directives and boost domestic revenue mobilisation. Speaking during a meeting with the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) in Abuja, the minister stressed that effective tax systems are essential for sustainable economic growth and fiscal stability across the region.

In a light satirical twist, the meeting could easily be described as a gathering where tax officials agreed that revenue should no longer disappear faster than taxpayers can invent excuses. While the discussions remained serious, the underlying message was unmistakable: West Africa can no longer afford weak tax administration if it hopes to finance development without excessive borrowing.

Regional Tax Cooperation Takes Centre Stage

Addressing delegates at the WATAF meeting, Oyedele urged member states to strengthen cooperation in implementing tax reforms and ensuring greater compliance with ECOWAS tax directives. He noted that closer collaboration would help governments improve revenue collection while creating fairer and more transparent tax systems that encourage economic growth.

The minister also challenged WATAF to serve as a platform for accountability by promoting benchmarking, peer reviews and the exchange of best practices among tax authorities. According to him, countries can learn from one another’s successes and shortcomings, ultimately building stronger institutions capable of meeting the region’s growing fiscal demands.

Taiwo Oyedele: From Competition to Collaboration

Oyedele emphasised that domestic revenue mobilisation has become increasingly important as governments across West Africa seek sustainable ways to fund infrastructure, healthcare, education and other critical public services. He maintained that effective tax administration is not simply about collecting more money but about building public confidence through fairness, transparency and efficiency.

Satirically, one could imagine tax collectors across the region attending a masterclass titled, “How to Collect Revenue Without Collecting Complaints.” The humorous imagery aside, the minister’s message carried significant weight: countries that share knowledge, embrace innovation and uphold accountability will be better positioned to strengthen their economies and reduce dependence on external financing.

The Abuja meeting signals Nigeria’s continued commitment to strengthening fiscal governance and promoting regional economic integration through improved tax administration. As ECOWAS member states work towards harmonising tax policies and sharing best practices, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether the renewed commitment translates into measurable improvements in revenue generation and accountability. OGM News NG will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on efforts to reshape tax administration across West Africa.