The ongoing conversation around the proposed tax reform bills shows the pressing need for transparency and fairness in Nigeria’s fiscal policymaking.
Development Diaries reports that the National Assembly is currently reviewing tax reform bills with the goal of reorganising the country’s fiscal framework.
President Bola Tinubu had on 03 October, 2024, sent four tax reform bills to the National Assembly. They are the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and Nigeria Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
Recall that the president established the Taiwo Oyedele-led Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in August 2023, two months after taking office.
However, there are concerns that the reforms would make regional inequities worse, especially in the northern states where economic instability, poverty, and insecurity are still prevalent.
The fact that the debate of the House of Representatives was suspended under pressure from northern governors and lawmakers explains the long-standing regional conflicts about fiscal equity.
These concerns highlight the need for a robust public hearing process that ensures that no region bears a disproportionate burden.
At the moment, many Nigerians believe their leaders are disconnected from their concerns, with numerous complaints of inadequate responsiveness and transparency, as seen in issues related to security, governance, and economic management.
Hence, it is important to note that transparency is pivotal in fostering trust in the government’s intent as regards these bills, and ensuring informed, inclusive decision-making.
While President Tinubu’s administration has emphasised the reforms’ potential to increase state and local government revenues and improve resource allocation, such promises must be backed by clear mechanisms for equitable implementation and oversight to avoid scepticism and backlash.
In all of these, citizens have a crucial role to play in holding the government accountable to ensure that the reforms do not put less-developed regions at a disadvantage.
Nigerian citizens need to scrutinise how the reforms will align with the administration’s commitment to fiscal accountability and whether the benefits will truly reach the grassroots.
Development Diaries calls on Nigerians to engage in this critical discourse, and demand that the legislative process be conducted openly to prevent policies that might deepen existing inequalities.
We also call on President Tinubu to ensure that his government’s assurance that the reforms will not impoverish any state or region must be substantiated through transparent policymaking and evidence-based decisions.
Lastly, we urge the National Assembly to ensure a transparent review process, coupled with accessible information, which will enable Nigerians to assess whether the proposed changes align with their needs and aspirations.
This will strengthen public confidence in the legislative and executive arms of government.
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