As the Nigerian Senate holds a public hearing on President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, the Northern Union and other Arewa groups have thrown their support behind the proposed legislation, emphasizing its benefits for Northern Nigeria.
The Tax Reform Bills, which include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, aim to streamline taxation, promote economic growth, and improve revenue generation.
Tax Reforms Will Boost Northern Economy – Arewa Groups
Speaking after the Senate hearing on Tuesday, Alhaji Adamu Muazu Garuba, convener of the Northern Union, stated that the proposed tax reforms align with the group’s goals of economic fairness, investment attraction, and job creation in the region.
Despite initial opposition from some Northern leaders, Garuba insisted that the reforms would have long-term benefits for the region.
“A simplified tax system will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the North. This will improve living standards, reduce poverty, and enhance economic activity across the region.”
He highlighted how the reduction in tax compliance costs would ease financial burdens on businesses, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the Northern economy.
“By lowering tax burdens on SMEs, these bills will promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation. Increased government revenue will also allow for better funding of critical infrastructure like healthcare, education, and transportation.”
Promoting Fairness, Reducing Poverty
Garuba further emphasized that the tax reforms would eliminate multiple taxation and reduce the tax burden on low-income earners, ensuring fairness and social justice.
“These reforms will bring transparency and accountability to the tax system, strengthening trust between the government and the people.”
Call for Northern Support
Commending the Senate Committee Chairman, Senator Sani Musa, for his neutrality and inclusiveness during the hearing, Garuba urged Northerners to support the reforms, stressing that they are in their best interest.
“We must embrace these reforms as a crucial step toward economic growth and development in the North.”
The Tax Reform Bills are currently under review in the Senate, with further deliberations expected in the coming weeks.
