From Abba Dukawa, Abuja
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has clarified that the House has not yet taken any position on the tax reform bills transmitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu for consideration and passage.
The bills—namely the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill—have stirred some controversy.
However, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, sought to allay concerns, clarifying that the proposed tax reform laws aim to address shortcomings in existing tax laws and are not intended to marginalize any region of the country, as some have mistakenly perceived. “There is no negative intent toward any region or group,” he emphasized.
Speaking at the opening of an interactive session on the proposed bills on Monday, Speaker Abbas underscored the importance of considering diverse perspectives, asking probing questions, and seeking clarity on any ambiguous provisions.
He remarked, “This session is designed to deepen our understanding of the bills’ provisions, foster constructive dialogue on contentious areas, and build consensus necessary to align the bills with the interests of the executive, legislature, sub-national governments, and the Nigerian people.”
Abbas further emphasized the session’s role in identifying areas that may require amendment, clarification, or improvement, while also ensuring the bills’ compatibility with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and other relevant laws.
He noted that despite Nigeria being Africa’s largest economy, the country faces a significant challenge with a tax-to-GDP ratio of just 6%, far below the global average and the World Bank’s minimum benchmark of 15% for sustainable development.
In his remarks, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu stressed the need for the provisions to be clearly articulated, focusing on how they align with the broader goals of promoting equity, driving economic growth, and ensuring no segment of society is left behind.
Zack Adedeji, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), stated that the agency is awaiting the outcome of the bills. He explained that the FIRS’ role is to implement the policies and laws passed by the National Assembly.
Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, Leader of the Northern Caucus in the House of Representatives, assured that lawmakers from the region would prioritize national interest in their consideration of the four tax reform bills.
Speaking to journalists at the tax reform interaction in Abuja on Monday, Doguwa emphasized that lawmakers would not rush the process but would study the bills carefully and diligently before passage.
“These proposed bills are closely related to fiscal federalism, particularly concerning resource sharing among the federating units and key government institutions,” he explained.
“We must proceed cautiously, examining each clause thoroughly to ensure justice for the people and to uphold the bills in the overall interest of the nation.”
He added, “We will certainly not rush the passage of these bills, as hasty legislation could fail to address the country’s practical economic realities.”
Doguwa further stressed that national interest would guide the legislative process. He expressed confidence in the government’s good intentions and assured that lawmakers would ensure the reforms ultimately benefit the people.
“We must commend the leadership of the House for organizing this interactive session, which will help clarify and enlighten all parties about the content and intent of the proposed tax reform bills,” he concluded.
