• Explains How Bauchi Stand to Benefit from Reform

• Safiu Kehinde

The Presidency has labelled the reaction of Bauchi state governor, Bala Mohammed, to the tax reform bill, a threat to the Federal Government.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

The Presidency charged the Bauchi state governor to retract the statement where he threatened that the Northerners will show Tinubu their true colour over his controversial tax reform bill.

According to the Dare, Bala’s remark does not depict the constructive dialogue needed between states and the Federal Government over the bill.

He held that Bala’s remark does not represent the collective voice of Northern Nigeria.

Dare claimed that Bauchi State had received N144 billion (State and LGA) in federal allocations under the current administration.

He charged Bala Mohammed to channel his energy on implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of the federal allocation to the state.

“The recent inflammatory rhetoric of Governor Bala Mohammed regarding the Tax Reform Act and direct threats toward the Federal Government are unbecoming of his office as a state governor. His statement “We will show President Tinubu our true color” is particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between state and FG.

“It bears noting that Bauchi State has received N144 billion (State and LGA) in federal allocations under the current administration – a significant increase from previous disbursements. Yet his state continues to grapple with serious developmental challenges and high poverty rates.

“Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of these federal resources.

“This unfortunate statement does not represent the collective voice of Northern Nigeria. The North, like other regions, seeks collaborative governance and constructive engagement with the Federal Government to address our nation’s challenges.

“As a state governor, he is called to exemplify statesmanship and work toward national cohesion. I urge him to retract these confrontational remarks and redirect his focus toward productive dialogue with the FG regarding any concerns about the Tax Reform Act.” Dare wrote.

The President’s Media Aide, however, broke down the current Federal allocation to Bauchi state while also highlighting the benefits the state stand to gain through the tax reform bill.

“The Tax Reform Act and increased federal allocations offer significant benefits to the States.

“Federal Allocation Benefits: The N144 billion allocation represents one of the highest increases in federal disbursements to states, providing Bauchi with unprecedented fiscal resources.

“This includes the recent N2 billion special intervention fund given to each state for food security.

“The removal of fuel subsidy compensation payments have boosted state revenues.

“Special consideration for derivation funds protecting northern states’ interests.

“Tax Reform Benefits: Streamlining of multiple taxation systems that currently burden small businesses in Bauchi.

“Enhanced revenue collection efficiency through digitalization.

“Protection of informal sector workers who form the backbone of Bauchi’s economy.

“Special provisions for agricultural businesses, which is crucial for Bauchi’s farming communities

“Development Opportunities: The reforms create frameworks for attracting investments through tax incentives.

“Capacity building for state revenue services. These initiatives demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to supporting state development.” Dare continued.

He further charged Bala Mohammed to leverage on the potentials of the bill by implementing transparent fiscal management system, developing state-specific tax incentives to attract investments, and investing in agricultural value chains rather than antagonizing it.

Dare urged public officials to rise above regional sentiments and political grandstanding to embrace the collective vision of a stronger, more prosperous nation.

He expressed that the path forward lies not in confrontation but in collaboration, not in threats but in thoughtful engagement, and certainly not in divisive statements but in unified action toward our shared goals of development and progress.

“Nigeria’s journey toward prosperity demands unity of purpose, not divisive rhetoric. At this critical juncture in our national development, public officials must rise above regional sentiments and political grandstanding to embrace the collective vision of a stronger, more prosperous nation.

“The challenges we face – from poverty to security, from economic growth to social development – transcend state boundaries and political affiliations.

“Indeed, all political leaders must remember that their primary obligation is to improve the lives of their citizens, which is best achieved through constructive dialogue, efficient resource management, and unwavering commitment to national unity.

“The path forward lies not in confrontation but in collaboration, not in threats but in thoughtful engagement, and certainly not in divisive statements but in unified action toward our shared goals of development and progress.

“This is the true leadership Nigeria needs – one that builds bridges, not barriers, and prioritizes the collective good over individual or regional interests.

“Finally, this Hausa might soothe the political nerves of the governor -“Gyara kayanka baya zama sauke mu raba”. Dare concluded.