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As President Commissions NRS Headquarters
- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has defended the new tax reform laws as he maintained that they were designed in a bid to simplify and eliminate distortion in the country’s taxation system.
Tinubu made this known during the commissioning of the National Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
While recalling his pledge on economic reforms during his swearing-in ceremony, Tinubu maintained that his administration remains committed to the pledge of strengthening Nigeria’s economy with the tax reforms serving as one of the tools for the fulfilment of what he labelled his covenant with Nigerians.
“On my inauguration day, I made a solemn pledge that we will move Nigeria from the dimness of uncertainty into the clear light of renewed hope.
“We will confront structural weakness, resentfulness and build an economy anchored on discipline, equity, and opportunity.
“Today, I stand before you that these words are not rhetorics but covenant with the Nigerian people.
“No serious nation can achieve lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system.
“No government can demand trust from its citizens when taxation is unpaid, inefficient, or unjust.
“That is why this administration took the bold decision to embark on far reaching tax and fiscal reforms.
“Reforms designed to simplify our system, eliminate distortion, and create a clear, transparent and investment-friendly environment.” Tinubu said.
The President commended the NRS Chairman, Dr. Zaach Adedeji, over the service’s accomplishment since his assumption to the office.
“The data demonstrated showed that Nigeria is working. You worked so hard Adedeji. Yours is an exceptional achievement for this administration.
“We are witnessing improved fiscal stability, stronger foreign reserves, a more efficient eco system, and increased investment.” He said.
While announcing the commissioning of the NRS headquarters, Tinubu described the facility as a symbol of new standard of professionalism, transparency, and efficiency.
The President charged the NRS to build trust and ensure fairness in the course of the duty.
“It is within the context that we commission this headquarters of Nigeria Revenue Service. This is more than concrete and steel. It is a symbol of a new standard of professionalism, transparency, efficiency, and service.
“You must not only collect revenue, but you must also build trust and ensure fairness.
“You must demonstrate that govt can be accountable, efficient, and response.” He said.
Tinubu also charged future leaders of the country to ensure the advancement of his administration’s drive towards national development and progress.
“Let those who will come after us, politics apart, be ready to build a history that is greater than ours.
“History will not just us by what we say, but by what we do.
“We have chosen reform, discipline, and progress, and we will take the course steadfastly with focus.” He added.