Contrary to the stance of Northern governors, the Northern Economic Development Forum, on Thursday, threw its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform initiatives, citing benefits for the region.

“There’s no cause for alarm…the proposed tax laws will enhance and modernize Nigeria’s tax landscape,” said Dr. Mustapha Ibrahim Gusau, the Forum spokesperson, in a press statement.

Tinubu’s reforms aim to restructure tax processes, establish a unified revenue service, and simplify financial obligations.

Earlier, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, explained that “the bill seeks the elimination of multiple taxation, which had remained a major burden on businesses.”

Onanuga added that the tax bill “will not lead to job losses in the North, as recently insinuated by the Northern Governors Forum.”

Explaining its benefits, Gusau argues that the reforms will:

– Harmonize Tax Laws: Streamline tax frameworks to promote economic growth
– Drive Efficiency and Modernization: Enhance revenue collection and administration
– Simplify Laws: Ensure synergy across revenue collection agencies
– Promote Transparency and Integrity: Update tax laws to reflect present realities

Gusau emphasized, “The laws won’t increase existing taxes, lead to job losses, or create additional compliance requirements for small businesses.

“The intent is to ensure a more equitable distribution of tax obligations without increasing the financial burden on Nigerians.

“The laws will not lead to job losses; instead, they are structured to stimulate new avenues for job creation, supporting a dynamic, growth-oriented economy.

“These laws will not eliminate or absorb the duties of any existing department, agency, or ministry. Rather, they aim to harmonise revenue collection and administration across the federation to drive cohesive and unified financial management.

“The bills will not create additional compliance requirements for small businesses or individual taxpayers. They are aimed at simplifying compliance, particularly for SMEs, and fostering a more inclusive tax environment.

The Forum plans to mobilize support for the Tax Reform Bills through a massive awareness campaign across the 19 Northern states. Northern Governors had opposed the Tax Reform Bills, citing concerns they would harm the region’s interests.

However, the Forum urges Nigerians, especially northerners, to embrace the reforms without unnecessary tension.

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