President Bola Tinubu has applauded governors for endorsing the Tax Reform Bills, calling the decision “bold.”
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on Thursday declared its support for the controversial bills, a move welcomed by advocates of the reforms.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga conveyed Tinubu’s appreciation, stating:
“President Bola Tinubu expresses gratitude to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for their unanimous endorsement of the four Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration by the National Assembly.”
Tinubu praised the governors for their leadership, unity, and commitment to fostering national development beyond regional, ethnic, and political divides.
The NGF’s endorsement followed discussions with the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy, described by the presidency as a “commendable example of Federal and State cooperation.”
The president also thanked NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq for rallying support among peers for the reforms, which aim to modernise outdated tax laws and enhance Nigeria’s economic competitiveness.
Despite objections, particularly from northern regions, Tinubu maintained that the bills are “pro-poor” and designed to attract investment and promote national interests.
He called on other stakeholders to engage in the legislative process and urged the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the bills.
The proposed reforms include repealing the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act to establish a new Nigeria Revenue Service, alongside bills on tax administration and joint revenue boards.
The National Assembly has paused the process for additional consultation following initial resistance.