South-South senators back tax reform bills

The lawmakers, under the South-South Senators’ Forum, emphasized the critical role of tax reforms in enhancing national revenue and promoting economic stability.

The proposed legislation includes the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.583), the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.584), the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024 (SB.585), and the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 (SB.586).

These four bills successfully passed second reading in the Senate today and were referred to the Senate Committee on Finance, led by Senator Sani Musa (Niger East), for further legislative scrutiny, including a public hearing.

In a statement released in Abuja by Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), Chairman of the Forum, the lawmakers affirmed their commitment to thoroughly evaluating the bills to ensure they align with the country’s interests and prioritize the well-being of the South-South region.

They also encouraged governors from the South-South to collaborate with lawmakers to refine the bills for the region’s benefit.

Representing Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers States, the Senators expressed confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio, commending his leadership in advancing the Senate’s constitutional duties.

The Forum called on stakeholders to avoid infusing regional, ethnic, or tribal sentiments into discussions surrounding the bills and advocated for inclusive consultations during the legislative process.

The communiqué was signed by 15 Senators, including:

Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe (PDP, Cross River North) – Forum Secretary

Senator Barinada Mpigi (PDP, Rivers South East)

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North)

Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South)

Senator Munir Ned Nwoko (PDP, Delta North)

Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo (APC, Delta South)

Senator Aniekan Bassey (PDP, Akwa Ibom South)

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South)

Senator Allwell Onyeso (PDP, Rivers East)

Senator Ipalibo Banigo (PDP, Rivers West)

Senator Benson Agadaga (PDP, Bayelsa East)

Senator Konbowei Benson (PDP, Bayelsa Central)

Senator Eteng Jonah Williams (APC, Cross River Central)

Senator Ekong Sampson (PDP, Akwa Ibom South)

Senator Ede Dafinone (APC, Delta Central)

The lawmakers reaffirmed their dedication to advancing legislative initiatives that promote national peace, prosperity, and progress, while addressing the unique needs of the South-South region.