Yemi Obafemi
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has revealed its plan to fill 80% of its workforce with full-time employees, marking a significant shift toward self-reliance and long-term institutional development.
This target, according to FIRS, reflects a bold commitment to reducing dependency on external consultants and strengthening the agency’s internal capacity.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Wednesday and signed by the Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy, Collins Omokaro.
“The 80% target demonstrates our commitment to self-reliance and national development. By investing in people, we are building a stronger, future-ready FIRS,” the agency stated.
The statement reads: “While outsourcing offers benefits, excessive reliance has led to challenges such as knowledge gaps, higher operational costs, and inefficiencies in continuity and accountability. By shifting towards an employee-driven workforce, FIRS aims to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and service delivery.
“The ongoing recruitment exercise is more than just hiring new employees; it is a strategic effort to reshape the future of FIRS. This initiative seeks to attract and retain top talent, improve operational efficiency, create sustainable career growth opportunities, and reduce dependence on external consultants.
“Certainly, by hiring skilled professionals across various departments, FIRS will ensure its workforce remains competitive and future-ready.
“A transparent and merit-based recruitment process is being overseen by key leadership, including the Chief of Staff, the Coordinating Director of the People Services Group, Special Adviser on Human Capital Management and the Staff Union Chairman, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are selected.
“This initiative aligns with the broader FIRS 2025 Strategic Roadmap, which prioritizes people-centric policies, technology and innovation, and operational excellence, all aimed at strengthening the institution’s capacity.”
The agency also introduced a new video series titled “Work With Us” Recruitment Updates.
The initiative, spearheaded by the office of the Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy, features senior leadership offering insights into the ongoing recruitment process and its anticipated long-term benefits.
“To maintain transparency and engagement, the Special Adviser on Communications and Advocacy team has launched the “Work With Us” Recruitment Updates video series, where senior leadership provides insights into the recruitment process and its long-term impact.
“Employees and stakeholders are encouraged to follow these updates to stay informed and involved. Ultimately, the vision to have 80% of FIRS jobs handled by its employees is not just a goal-it is a commitment to excellence, self-reliance, and national progress.
“We believe by investing in people and processes, FIRS can secure its future as a world-class revenue agency that will serve Nigeria for generations to come,” the statement added.
