One of Nigeria’s most highly regarded public officials, Ifueko Omoigui Okauru is the Africa Initiative for Governance Fellow of Practice 2019–20 at the Blavatnik School of Government. Her achievements in office are still a reference point almost a decade after her tenure ended.

Leading the Federal Inland Revenue Service of Nigeria (FIRS), Nigeria’s federal tax authority, and the Joint Tax Board from 2004 to 2012, she spearheaded comprehensive tax reforms culminating in the development of Nigeria’s first national tax policy, the modification of tax legislation and marked improvement in the effectiveness of tax administration.

In this lecture, Omoigui Okauru presents her perspective and reflections on the model of change adopted at FIRS. She discusses how institutional change in the public service can be achieved and positively influence people across class, race, gender, religion and geography in a multi-ethnic and multi-faith environment; and how both tax administrators and taxpayers can be galvanised into action.

Acknowledging the inherent challenges and obstacles associated with reform, Omoigui Okauru also discusses overcoming age and gender bias as the only female chair to have led the Federal Inland Revenue Service since its inception.

This lecture is held in partnership with the Africa Initiative for Governance. The AIG Fellowship is awarded to an individual from West Africa who has demonstrated evidence of outstanding contribution to the public good, through exemplary leadership in public service.

Please note: This event will be held online via Zoom. Register via the event page to receive joining instructions.