CurrentReport Blog The Parliamentary Monitoring Group (PMG), a leading pro-democracy organisation, has called on the National Assembly to expedite the passage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills. PMG assured Nigerians that these bills are critical for national progress and economic recovery.
In a statement released on Monday, Dr. Adebayor Lion Ogorry, President of PMG, described the reforms as essential to resolving Nigeria’s economic challenges. He urged lawmakers in both chambers to prioritise the bills, stating, “Accelerating their passage is a matter of urgent national importance.”
President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Agenda
The proposed tax reforms stem from recommendations by the Taiwo Oyedele-led Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, inaugurated in August 2023. President Tinubu introduced four executive bills:
- Nigeria Tax Bill
- Nigeria Tax Administration Bill
- Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill
- Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill
These bills aim to restructure Nigeria’s taxation system by harmonising federal, state, and local tax authorities, eliminating inefficiencies, and reducing overlaps. Key reforms include:
- Establishing a new National Revenue Service to oversee tax collection.
- Transferring tax functions from agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigeria Upstream Regulatory Commission.
- Restructuring the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Joint Tax Board for improved efficiency.
Opposition and Criticism
Despite their potential benefits, the bills have faced criticism, with some stakeholders labelling them “anti-north.” Additionally, the National Executive Council, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, has advised President Tinubu to reconsider the proposals.
Dr. Ogorry attributed the resistance to individuals benefiting from the current flawed tax system, adding, “Anyone opposing these bills is an enemy of Nigeria’s progress.”
Economic Relief for Nigerians
PMG highlighted that the reforms could ease economic burdens, especially for low-income earners, by streamlining tax processes and reducing corruption. Dr. Ogorry commended President Tinubu’s determination, stating, “These reforms have the potential to reposition Nigeria among economically viable nations.”
The group urged lawmakers to see the bills as their contribution to revamping the nation’s economy, emphasising the urgency of their passage.
