The Nigerian Presidency has dismissed allegations of rushing the Tax Reform Bills through the National Assembly, emphasizing that the process is the outcome of an extensive 14-month consultation involving over 80 professionals from across the country.
Temitope Ajayi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, addressed the issue on Monday through a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
Ajayi argued that delaying the passage of the bills could lead to economic setbacks reminiscent of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which took nearly two decades to pass.
“It is very disingenuous to say that the Tax Reform Bills, the product of 14 months of extensive work by over 80 professionals drawn from every part of the country, are being rushed through the National Assembly,” Ajayi said.
Highlighting the challenges faced during the prolonged legislative process of the PIB, he added, “The suggestion that it took the PIB over 20 years to get through the parliament is backward thinking. Nigeria lost too much for the failure to pass the PIB on time in terms of revenue, investments, and jobs in the oil & gas sector.”
Ajayi provided a detailed timeline of the extensive efforts that shaped the Tax Reform Bills.
He warned that postponing the legislation could jeopardize Nigeria’s economic stability, citing the country’s dwindling oil revenues and increasing debt burden.
“We should not wait for another 20 years to do what is right for our country,” Ajayi said, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and decisiveness in driving the reforms forward.
Ajayi dismissed speculation that the bills were politically motivated, stressing that the reforms aim to modernize Nigeria’s tax system, fund public services, and diversify the economy.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, voiced his reservations during an interview with BBC Hausa, cautioning against the perceived haste in the legislative process.
“Why the rush? The Petroleum Industry Bill took almost 20 years before it was finally passed. But this tax reform bill is being transmitted and receiving legislative attention within a week,” Zulum said.
The governor expressed fears that the proposed tax reforms might disproportionately benefit Lagos State while leaving other regions at a disadvantage. He urged lawmakers to approach the bill with caution to ensure equitable and long-term benefits for all Nigerians.
Ajayi compared the current tax reforms to the PIB’s protracted legislative journey, which was marred by political gridlock and regional disagreements.
He noted that the delay hindered Nigeria’s ability to attract investments in the oil and gas sector, weakened revenue streams, and stifled job creation.
“The most important thing is to be upright in your decision, transparent, and accountable,” Ajayi reiterated, urging lawmakers to prioritize national interest over regional or political considerations.
