Nigerians Can Now Calculate Tax Impact with Tinubu's New Calculator
President Bola Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Justice to resolve concerns over the controversial Tax Reforms Bill. The directive came on Tuesday as protests and debates around the bills continued, with the aim of Tinubu led administration to address Tax Bill. Tinubu emphasised that the ministry must work with the National Assembly to ensure clarity.
The bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 and others focused on tax administration. Critics believe the reforms will harm fiscal federalism and reduce state revenues. Northern governors are particularly opposed, warning of potential financial losses for their regions.
Despite the backlash, Tinubu directs the Justice Ministry to address these issues without halting the process. He noted that the reforms aim to improve Nigeria’s tax system and benefit all regions. The Presidency dismissed claims of favoritism toward Lagos and Rivers states.
Protests supporting the reforms took place at the National Assembly. Youth groups from the North backed the bills and called for swift action. They argued that the new VAT system could boost state revenue.
Prominent figures have also endorsed the reforms. Sheikh Ahmad Gumi called the bills a necessary economic change. Bishop Hassan Kukah said they could end reckless financial practices.
The tax reforms sparked heated debates in the House of Representatives. Lawmakers clashed over their potential impacts. Tinubu directs the Justice Ministry to act quickly and address genuine concerns raised by stakeholders.
Protests in favour of the bills unfolded at the National Assembly, with northern youths backing the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, and denouncing critics as “enemies of progress.” The protesters highlighted the potential benefits of the reforms, claiming they would increase states’ revenues from VAT allocations and are sure Tinubu will address the Tax Bill.
The tax reforms have also gained notable endorsements. Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi described the bills as a step towards improving Nigeria’s economic landscape, while Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Hassan Kukah, said the reforms could end the financial recklessness of the elite. Similarly, the Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly lauded the reforms as transformative, urging stakeholders to support them.
The debate over the bills triggered heated moments in the House of Representatives, with lawmakers clashing during plenary. Ekiti State lawmaker Akin Rotimi faced backlash for declaring his state’s support for the reforms, leading to protests and calls for order from Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. Another lawmaker, Philip Agbese, faced criticism for comments perceived as derogatory toward opponents of the bills.
The Presidency reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability and welcomed constructive feedback from Nigerians.
