Northern groups urge constructive debate on Tax Reform Bills, warn against politicization

A coalition of civil society organizations, youth groups, and student associations from Northwest Nigeria has called for a more constructive and non-partisan approach to the ongoing debate over the tax reform bills before the National Assembly.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a one-day symposium held on Thursday, at Arewa House, Kaduna. 

SolaceBase reports that the event, organized by the Nigeria First Project Initiative, Muryar Talaka Awareness Initiative, and the Coalition of Northern Nigerian Students Forum, brought together representatives from seven Northwestern states to discuss the theme: Tax Reform Bills: Between the Facts and Politics. 

In their communiqué, participants acknowledged the importance of the tax reform bills in addressing Nigeria’s fiscal challenges.

Read Also:Four charts showing key numbers from Tax Reform Bills

They noted that, if implemented effectively, the reforms could enhance the country’s revenue base, reduce over-reliance on oil, and create a fairer tax system that supports economic growth. 

However, they expressed concern over the politicization and regionalization of the debate, accusing certain political actors of exploiting the issue to advance personal interests and undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The communiqué criticized the use of divisive rhetoric and ethnic sentiments, warning that such tactics detract from meaningful discussions and could harm national unity. 

Participants called on Northerners to engage constructively in upcoming public hearings on the tax bills and to present their views through democratic channels.

The coalition emphasized the need for Northern leaders to explore innovative ways of harnessing the region’s abundant resources, including agriculture, solid minerals, and livestock, to achieve economic self-sufficiency.

Read Also:Ways Nigerians can benefit from Tax Reforms-Oyedele

They urged state governors to prioritize agricultural development and leverage federal policies to boost productivity and generate revenue. 

The communiqué also commended President Tinubu’s initiatives, including the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, the creation of the Northwest Development Commission, local government autonomy, and the student loan scheme, describing them as significant steps towards national progress. 

They urged citizens to remain vigilant against political actors using the tax reform debate as a platform to further their ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

The communiqué concluded by emphasizing the importance of visionary leadership and accountability, particularly at the sub-national level, as key to addressing the region’s economic and social challenges.