Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly has thrown it’s weight behind the Tax Reform Bills currently before the national assembly.
The caucus in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja said it arrived at the position after a keen appraisal of the bills, noting they represent a visionary effort to modernise Nigeria’s fiscal framework.
It, therefore, called on all stakeholders, including state governments, private sector leaders, civil society, and citizens, to support the bills, stressing that their success is not only a win for the President Bola Tinubu-led administration but also a critical step toward building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
The proposed legislations – the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024; Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024; Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024; and Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024, according to the lawmakers represent a visionary effort to get the nation out of economic stagnancy.
The lawmakers further highlighted that “the bills aim to strengthen Nigeria’s revenue generation system, ensuring sustainable funding for critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare”.
The caucus also added that these proposed tax reforms are a testament to the bold and transformative agenda of Tinubu, GCFR, President, which according to the lawmakers, has prioritised economic growth, inclusivity, and national prosperity.
It should be noted that the Ekiti State Caucus is the first State Caucus in the National Assembly to unanimously endorse these critical tax reform bills.
Under the leadership of Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Caucus has actively participated in consultations and engagements across both Chambers of the National Assembly and remains fully committed to ensuring the passage of these bills in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
According to the statement signed by
all the members representing the state at both the Senate and the House of Representatives, the caucus has engaged extensively with stakeholders in the state, including the H.E. Governor Biodun Oyebanji – led state government, and is “determined that for Ekiti State, and indeed all states, these reforms are tangible steps that will improve the quality of life for our citizens”.
“Additionally, these reforms will simplify the tax system, foster local entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create employment opportunities, driving economic growth across the state and the nation.
“The establishment of the Tax Appeal Tribunal and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman will further entrench transparency, accountability, and fairness in tax administration, protecting taxpayers’ rights and fostering trust in the system”.
It noted that “while dissenting voices have emerged, as is expected in any vibrant democracy, we are confident that the compelling merits of these reforms will secure their eventual passage”.
“The Ekiti State Caucus encourages constructive debates, recognising that such discussions enrich our democratic processes”.
It added that “As representatives of Ekiti State, we remain resolute in our support for initiatives that prioritise economic growth and enhance the welfare of our people.
“These reforms underscore our collective commitment to a better future, and we urge all Nigerians to embrace this bold step toward national development”.
