Tinubu Insists on Tax Reform Bills, Says They Are Here to Stay

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to implementing the controversial tax reform bills, despite growing opposition.

Speaking during a presidential media chat in Lagos State on Monday, Tinubu maintained that the reforms are essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and will not be reversed.

“The tax reform is here to stay. The reform is pro-poor, and it is meant to widen the tax net so we can have more people paying,” the president stated.

“The hallmark of a good leader is the ability to do what you have to do at the time it ought to be done.”

Northern Leaders Push Back

The tax reform bills have sparked widespread debate, with significant resistance from Northern leaders, who claim the policies are designed to impoverish the region.

Critics argue that the reforms could place an additional burden on citizens and exacerbate existing economic challenges.

Despite the pushback, President Tinubu stressed the importance of the reforms in addressing Nigeria’s fiscal challenges, including broadening the revenue base and reducing reliance on oil income.

The proposed reforms are part of the administration’s broader economic agenda, which aims to modernize Nigeria’s tax system and improve public finance management.

However, their implementation remains a contentious issue, with calls for more consultations and adjustments to address regional concerns.