Southern Reps Finally Back Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills

The Southern Caucus in the House of Representatives has declared its support for President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, describing them as essential for overhauling Nigeria’s tax system.

After a meeting on Tuesday at the residence of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu in Abuja, the caucus reiterated its commitment to facilitating the passage of the bills while ensuring broad consultations to address contentious aspects.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Speaking on behalf of the caucus, Chairman Nicholas Mutu stated, “Southern lawmakers are fully committed to giving these bills the necessary support for their passage. However, we will continue engaging in dialogue to address concerns and build consensus.”

Acknowledging the opposition from northern leaders and lawmakers, the Southern Caucus emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure the reforms benefit the entire country.

The tax reform bills—transmitted to the National Assembly on September 3—comprise the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. These proposals are based on the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, which aims to modernize and streamline Nigeria’s tax framework.

Key components of the bills include:

• The Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, providing a comprehensive fiscal framework for taxation in the country.
• The Tax Administration Bill, establishing clear legal guidelines for taxes to minimize disputes.
• The Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, replacing the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act with the Nigeria Revenue Service.
• The Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, creating a tax tribunal and tax ombudsman for improved oversight.

  Southern Reps Finally Back Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills

  Despite the Southern Caucus’s support, the bills have faced widespread criticism, particularly from the 36 state governors, who in October called for their withdrawal to allow for more extensive consultations. The reforms remain a subject of intense debate as lawmakers and stakeholders work to find common ground.

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