Michael Ango: Revolutionising revenue assurance in the FCT

BY BOLANLE ODUYEMI

In August 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Mr. Michael Hadi Ango as the Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS). This pivotal appointment has proven to be a game-changer, ushering in innovative reforms that have significantly enhanced revenue assurance strategies in the nation’s capital.

Mr. Ango’s academic journey reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, followed by his training at the Nigeria Law School. His quest for advanced knowledge led him to obtain a Master of Laws (LLM) from Columbia University School of Law in New York, and he further honed his expertise by completing the Executive Education in Comparative Tax Policy and Administration Programme at Harvard Kennedy School of Government. These stellar credentials have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of legal and tax systems, laying a strong foundation for his contributions to both public and private sectors.

Ango’s professional trajectory is a testament to his ability to drive meaningful change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Guinness Nigeria PLC, he played a critical role in shaping corporate strategies and navigating stakeholder relations. At Andersen LP, where he served as Partner and Head of the Tax Advisory and Regulatory Services Unit, he offered cutting-edge tax solutions, leveraging his deep expertise in fiscal policies and regulations.

His tenure as Head of Legal and Stakeholders Relations at the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) PLC, a Central Bank of Nigeria subsidiary, showcased his exceptional ability to navigate complex legal frameworks while fostering productive relationships with diverse stakeholders.

On the international stage, Ango served as President of the Ethics Committee of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), exemplifying his commitment to governance and ethical leadership. Closer to home, his contributions to the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms underscored his dedication to shaping Nigeria’s fiscal landscape.

Since his appointment, Ango has introduced a suite of ground-breaking initiatives that have redefined how the FCT-IRS operates.

Restructuring for Efficiency

Ango spearheaded a comprehensive reorganization of the FCT-IRS, creating new departments such as Audit, Debt Management and Enforcement, and a revamped Tax Operations Department. These units are now structured to focus on taxpayer categories, a move that has streamlined operations and enhanced compliance across the board.

Targeting High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs)

Recognizing the revenue potential from High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) in Abuja, Ango established a dedicated unit to oversee the taxation of over 10,000 HNIs. This initiative has ensured that this critical demographic fulfills its tax obligations, contributing significantly to the revenue base.

Record-Breaking Revenue Growth

Under his leadership, the FCT-IRS achieved an unprecedented N252.83 billion in internally generated revenue for 2024. This figure surpassed the agency’s annual target by 101%, representing a remarkable 19.8% increase from the previous year—a clear testament to Ango’s visionary leadership and strategic reforms.

Leveraging Financial Intelligence

To improve tax compliance, Ango partnered with the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). This collaboration employs financial intelligence tools to identify and monitor tax evaders, significantly boosting compliance rates and expanding the tax net.

E-Ticketing for Transparency

Ango is collaborating with stakeholders to introduce an electronic ticketing system for traffic violations in the FCT. This innovation aims to automate the issuance of fines, enhance transparency, and streamline revenue collection from road taxes.

Centralizing Revenue Collection

In a bold move to improve efficiency, Ango initiated the takeover of revenue collection for the FCT’s area councils by the FCT-IRS. This centralization effort is designed to minimize leakages and ensure more robust revenue streams for the territory.

Mr. Michael Hadi Ango’s appointment has been a turning point for the FCT-IRS. His rich blend of academic excellence, professional acumen, and ethical governance has enabled him to chart a course toward fiscal sustainability and operational efficiency. By introducing innovative strategies and fostering collaborations, Ango is not only meeting but exceeding expectations in revenue assurance.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration under the leadership of His Excellency, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, is indeed fortunate to have a leader of Ango’s caliber driving transformative change, ensuring that its revenue service becomes a model of excellence for the rest of the nation.