Lagos, Nigeria — The Nigerian government has filed criminal tax charges against Saipem Contracting Nigeria Limited over an alleged failure to deduct and remit taxes amounting to ₦66.4 billion and $938,080.15.
The six-count charge, instituted by the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), formerly the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), is before the Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Daniel Osiagor.
Also named in the suit are two senior directors of the company, Michele Poggi and Gianni Di Pietro, who are accused of being responsible for the alleged infractions.
According to prosecutors, the offences occurred between 2014 and 2019 and involve multiple tax obligations, including Companies Income Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), Withholding Tax, Capital Gains Tax, Tertiary Education Tax, Stamp Duties and the Nigeria Police Trust Fund levy.
The government alleges that the company and its directors knowingly failed to deduct and remit these statutory taxes, in breach of Nigerian tax laws.
The case is part of a broader push by authorities to strengthen tax enforcement and improve revenue generation, particularly from multinational corporations operating in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Industry analysts say the move underscores the government’s resolve to widen the tax net and enforce compliance amid ongoing economic reforms and fiscal pressures.
Saipem, a major global engineering and energy services firm with significant operations in Nigeria, has yet to issue an official response to the charges.
Legal experts note that, if proven, the allegations could attract substantial financial penalties and possible custodial sentences for the individuals involved.
The defendants are expected to appear in court as proceedings begin, in a case that could have wider implications for foreign investment and regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s energy industry.
The development signals a tougher stance by Nigerian authorities on tax compliance, even as the country continues efforts to attract investment into its oil and gas sector.
