By Ayomide Otitoju
The Chairman of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has called on Nigerians to focus on the transformative potential of the proposed Tax Reform Bills rather than allow minor controversies to hinder their passage.
The bills, submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu, have drawn criticism, particularly from prominent northern leaders who argue that the reforms are biased against the region. The National Economic Council, comprising the 36 state governors, has advised the President to withdraw the bills for broader consultation. However, Tinubu has insisted that the legislative process should address any concerns.
Speaking during a Channels Television Townhall on the Tax Reform Bills on Monday, Oyedele, whose committee developed the proposals, highlighted the reforms’ far-reaching benefits.
“These bills have more than 200 transformative provisions to fix our country and set us on the right path to prosperity,” Oyedele said. “We should not allow one or two provisions that we can easily discuss and agree on to become the bottleneck.”
Addressing Concerns
Oyedele acknowledged the controversies surrounding some provisions but noted they are minimal and resolvable. He emphasized that over 90% of Nigerians support the reforms.
Among the bills’ benefits, Oyedele pointed out measures to exempt low-income earners entirely from tax payments and reduce the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) burden for middle-income earners. “With these provisions, more than 90% of the tax burden on Nigerian workers will be reduced,” he said.
The Tax Reform Bills form part of President Tinubu’s broader economic agenda to stabilize the economy and drive prosperity. While the debate continues, Oyedele stressed the importance of focusing on the broader vision rather than dwelling on a few contentious clauses.
