Profile of new FIRS chairman, Zacchaeus Adedeji Adelabu

Early Life: Zacchaeus Adedeji Adelabu, born on January 8, 1978, hails from Oyo State, Nigeria. He spent his formative years in Iwo-Ate, Ogbomoso, Oyo State. Growing up, he closely observed his late father, a cocoa merchant, navigating the challenges and determination required in the cocoa trade. These early experiences instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility and a drive to effect positive change.

Education: Adedeji’s educational journey reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. He began his formal education in AFIJIO, a local government area, where he completed his secondary school education while assisting his father during visits to Oyo Town. His academic prowess shone through as he consistently ranked among the top performers in his class. This success earned him a scholarship established for bright but economically disadvantaged students by Chief Gani Fawehinmi, a renowned legal luminary and human rights advocate.

He furthered his education at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, where he excelled in accountancy, earning a distinction. Subsequently, he gained admission through direct entry at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, where he continued to distinguish himself academically. Adedeji graduated with a first-class degree in accounting, becoming one of the country’s youngest chartered accountants, achieving this milestone at a remarkably young age.

Career: Zacchaeus Adedeji Adelabu’s career trajectory is marked by exceptional achievements. In 2011, at the age of 33, he was appointed Commissioner for Finance by Governor Abiola Ajimobi, making history as the youngest individual to hold this position in Oyo State. Prior to this, his career gained momentum through his dedicated work with the multinational company Procter and Gamble (P&G), where he attained a managerial role. His expertise and reputation have established him as one of the most sought-after professionals in Oyo State and beyond.

Adedeji’s extensive knowledge extends to corporate tax and public finance development, leading to his current role as the Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC). In this capacity, he plays a pivotal role in shaping and advancing the sugar industry’s growth. Additionally, he co-founded RTR, a financial consulting firm specializing in providing comprehensive financial advisory and policy development services to public administrators and private institutions across West Africa.

Furthermore, Adedeji serves as the Special Adviser on Revenue to President Bola Tinubu, underscoring his dedication to contributing his expertise at the highest echelons of government.

Personal Life: Zacchaeus Adedeji Adelabu is a married man and enjoys the blessings of a family with children.

Appointment as Acting Executive Chairman of FIRS: Zaccheus Adedeji was appointed as the Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) by President Bola Tinubu. This appointment suggests a significant leadership role in overseeing tax collection and revenue generation for the Nigerian government.