NEWS RELEASE

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Remuneration Committee, under the able leadership of Chief Emeka Obegolu, PhD, SAN, continues to receive commendable institutional support in its mission to enforce compliance with the Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration Order (LPRO) 2023.

In a recent development, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has formally responded to the Committee’s compliance correspondence, affirming its unwavering commitment to the implementation of the Order within its operations.

In a letter dated 10th March 2025, and addressed to the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, with specific attention to the Chairman of the NBA Remuneration Committee, FIRS commended the NBA for its dedication to promoting professionalism, transparency, and equity in the legal profession through the adoption of this regulatory framework.

The letter, signed by Akubuo Ifeanyi, Assistant Director (for: The Director, Litigation and Prosecution Department), emphasized the importance of the Remuneration Order in preserving the integrity of legal services and ensuring fair compensation for legal practitioners.

It further acknowledged that FIRS, being a statutory body entrusted with national revenue collection and administration, adheres strictly to all extant legal and regulatory provisions, including the LPRO 2023.

According to the correspondence, “Our Legal Department has a comprehensive parameter when it comes to compensation of legal practitioners which ensures alignment with the prescribed remuneration structure.”

FIRS also confirmed that all its contracts, property transactions, advisory engagements, and legal documentation are strictly aligned with the minimum fees and standards outlined in the Order.

This institutional affirmation is a significant endorsement of the NBA’s efforts to entrench ethical billing and fair compensation practices across public and private sectors.

Importantly, FIRS expressed its willingness to strengthen collaboration with the NBA. It extended an invitation to the Remuneration Committee to consider holding a joint workshop or briefing session.

Such a session, according to FIRS, would be an avenue for deepening understanding of the Remuneration Order’s application within FIRS and also serve as a platform to sensitize legal practitioners and stakeholders on key tax-related matters.

This development is a testament to the positive impact of the NBA’s advocacy and proactive engagements. The Remuneration Committee remains committed to expanding compliance partnerships and institutional awareness in line with its mandate.

As the Committee continues its engagement with government agencies, private organizations, and law firms nationwide, we call on all stakeholders to emulate FIRS’s commendable example in promoting fair remuneration and upholding ethical practice within the legal profession.

Signed:
NBA Remuneration Committee Secretariat
For further information or partnership, please contact: Ms. Stella Charles Akupue, Programme Officer – 08033888791