During a public hearing organized by the Nigerian Senate on President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, the Northern Union and other Arewa groups expressed support, stating that the reforms would benefit the North.
The tax reform bills, which include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, aim to create a more structured and efficient taxation framework in Nigeria.
The Senate commenced a two-day public hearing on these bills, bringing together key stakeholders from the country’s economic and financial sectors.
Speaking on behalf of a coalition of Arewa groups after the hearing on Tuesday, Alhaji Adamu Muazu Garuba, convener of the Northern Union, stated that the reforms align with the organization’s goals of fostering economic growth, fairness, and simplicity.
Despite initial opposition from some Northern leaders, Garuba emphasized that the proposed tax reforms would positively impact the region.
He highlighted that a simplified tax system would encourage investments, generate employment, and stimulate economic growth in the North. Additionally, lower compliance costs would reduce the financial burden on taxpayers, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are essential to the region’s economy.
Garuba further explained that the increased revenue from tax reforms would allow Northern governments to fund crucial infrastructure projects and social programs, addressing challenges in healthcare, education, and transportation.
The tax reforms, he added, would also enhance fairness by eliminating multiple taxation, reducing the tax burden on low-income earners, and promoting social justice. Furthermore, the reforms would increase transparency and accountability, fostering trust between the government and citizens.
He commended Senate Committee Chairman Senator Sani Musa for maintaining neutrality and ensuring all voices were heard during the hearing.
Garuba urged Northerners to support the tax reform bills, emphasizing that they are in the region’s best interest.