Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu has called on the media to support his controversial tax reforms bills which is currently before the National Assembly.
The president said the reforms proposed by his administration would create room for the building of an enduring national wealth and prosperity that would benefit every Nigerian.
Speaking at the the 2024 Nigerian Media Merit Awards in Lagos, the president stated that while opinions may differ on the details of the proposed tax reforms, there is a national consensus on the need for a complete overhaul of the current tax administration process in the country.
Represented by the minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, the president said he believes the ongoing dialogue on the tax reform bills would help convince the people on its need.
His words, “I will say with every sense of conviction that our policies are deliberate and well-thought-out. We are headed toward the restoration of Nigeria, on a path requiring a comprehensive approach that addresses economic diversification, human capital development, infrastructure development, wealth creation, and inclusive growth.
“Among our various landmark reforms is the one focused on tax, by far one of the most profound steps necessary for setting Nigeria onto the path of enduring national wealth and prosperity for all our people.
“There is a consensus that the tax administration system in Nigeria requires reform. We may not all agree on every detail of the required reform, but there will be many areas of convergence,” he said.
He further urged the media to ensure they report and analyse narratives for the needed public’s consumption while emphasising the roles the bills could play in developing the nation.