Tinubu lauds govs for backing tax reform bills

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) yesterday expressed support for the contentious bills, a development welcomed by advocates of the reforms.

Shortly after, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga shared Tinubu’s gratitude for the governors’ backing.

“President Bola Tinubu extends his appreciation to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for their unanimous endorsement of the four Tax Reform Bills currently under review by the National Assembly,” Onanuga stated this evening .

Tinubu commended the governors for their bold leadership and their commitment to fostering unity across regional, ethnic, and political lines to promote Nigeria’s development.

The endorsement followed a meeting between the governors and the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy.

According to the presidency, this collaboration exemplifies the benefits of cooperation between federal and state governments and demonstrates the value of constructive dialogue in addressing differences.

Tinubu specifically acknowledged the efforts of NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, for successfully rallying support among his colleagues.

He also recognized the contributions of the Progressive Governors Forum, Northern Governors Forum, and other groups for achieving a bipartisan resolution on the tax reform issues.

Despite objections, partcularly from the northern region, Tinubu described the bills as “pro-poor” measures aimed at advancing national interests, improving Nigeria’s economic competitiveness, and attracting investments.

He emphasized the need to modernize the country’s outdated tax laws to drive economic progress.

The president reaffirmed his commitment to working with the governors to promote economic growth, national unity, peace, and stability.

He also urged other stakeholders with constructive input on the bills to engage with the ongoing legislative process at the National Assembly.

Tinubu called on the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of the bills to enable the country to quickly benefit from the reforms.

In October, Tinubu forwarded four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, including the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Tax Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. He also proposed replacing the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) with the Nigeria Revenue Service. However, opposition to the bills led to a temporary suspension for further consultations.