- Safiu Kehinde
As against opposition of the proposed tax reform bills by the Northern Governors’ Forum on Monday, the Federal Government has allayed the governors concern over the bills as it explained that they are aimed at streamlining Nigeria’s tax administration processes.
The Federal Government, in a statement, issued on Thursday by the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, maintained that the bills seek to enhance efficiency and eliminate redundancies across the nation’s tax operations.
As contained in the statement shared on his X handle, Olusegun maintained that the four executive bills were designed to transform and modernize Nigeria’s tax landscape.
He highlighted the bills while explaining the motives behind them.
“First is the Nigeria Tax Bill, which aims to eliminate unintended multiple taxation and make Nigeria’s economy more competitive by simplifying tax obligations for businesses and individuals nationwide.
“Second, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill (NTAB) proposes new rules governing the administration of all taxes in the country. Its objective is to harmonise tax administrative processes across federal, state and local jurisdictions for ease of compliance for taxpayers in all parts of the country.
“Third, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill seeks to rename the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) to better reflect the mandate of the Service as the revenue agency for the entire federation, not just the Federal Government.
“Fourth, the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill proposes the creation of a Joint Revenue Board to replace the Joint Tax Board, covering federal and all states’ tax authorities.
“The fourth bill also suggests establishing the Office of Tax Ombudsman under the Joint Revenue Board, which would serve as a complaint resolution body for taxpayers. It is instructive to note that these proposed laws will not increase the number of taxes currently in operation. Instead, they are designed to optimise and simplify existing tax frameworks.” Olusegun wrote.
Meanwhile, he maintained that the tax rates remain unchanged, adding that the reforms will generate more job opportunities as against fear of job losses.
“The tax rates or percentages will remain the same under these reforms, as they focus on ensuring a more equitable distribution of tax obligations without adding to the burden on Nigerians. The reforms will not lead to job losses.
“On the contrary, they are structured to stimulate new avenues for job creation by supporting a dynamic, growth-oriented economy. Importantly, these laws will not absorb or eliminate the duties of any existing department, agency, or ministry.
“Instead, they aim to harmonise revenue collection and administration across the federation to ensure efficiency and cooperation.” He added.