KADUNA, Nigeria — Amidst the controversy surrounding the tax reform bills, President Bola Tinubu has begun efforts to garner support from the Northern region, which has shown resistance to the proposed reforms.
Speaking on behalf of the Tinubu administration at the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) 2024 Annual Public Lecture/AGM and Awards in Kaduna, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized that the introduction of the bills is not intended to undermine democracy. The event, organized by the state chapter of NIPR, focused on the theme “Tax Reform: The Role of Public Relations in Fostering Constructive Dialogue for National Economic Renaissance.”
Idris highlighted the urgent need for reform in the country’s tax administration system, citing outdated laws and implementation flaws. He noted that the ongoing review of tax laws is a crucial part of broader macroeconomic reforms aimed at setting Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth and development.
“The full details of the new tax bills are available in the public domain. One must commend the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for their excellent public engagement. It is inspiring to see Nigerians from all walks of life expressing their views on these critical national issues, which is the essence of democracy,” Idris stated.
He acknowledged the challenge of trust deficit in governance but praised the robust debate on the sensitive issue. President Tinubu, he assured, is committed to listening to and working with all stakeholders to address concerns comprehensively. Open communication and engagement with the National Assembly and other stakeholders will continue to be prioritized.
“We are all in this together, as one people, one nation. Just as we are called upon to make collective sacrifices, we will also collectively reap the benefits of these necessary reforms,” Idris added.
The minister affirmed that President Tinubu’s administration will implement an ambitious fiscal reform agenda that devolves more resources to state and local governments, in the spirit of true federalism. He stressed the importance of citizen engagement in this process.
Idris also highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to providing the public with insights and information to bolster trust in the reform agenda. He called for the support of the NIPR and other stakeholders in fostering constructive dialogue.
In closing, Idris assured that the Tinubu administration will uphold the ideals of participatory democracy, emphasizing that their mandate to govern and reform Nigeria is rooted in democratic principles.
Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, also spoke at the event. He stated that the tax reforms aim to streamline the nation’s fiscal framework and improve operational efficiency.
