Universal Times

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has revealed the reasons behind the Senate's passage of President Tinubu's tax reform bills, despite opposition from northern governors. According to Jibrin, the Senate's decision was motivated by the need for expert and public input in shaping the future of Nigeria's tax system ¹.

The tax reform bills, which include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, aim to simplify and streamline tax administration, reduce the burden on low-income earners, and eliminate double taxation ¹.

However, the bills have been met with criticism from northern governors and other stakeholders, who argue that they will disproportionately harm the North. Despite these concerns, Jibrin maintains that the Senate's decision to pass the bills was necessary to ensure that the tax system is fair, efficient, and effective ¹.

It's worth noting that the Northern Youth Assembly has condemned Jibrin's support for the tax reform bills, accusing him of betraying the interests of Kano State and Northern Nigeria ². The assembly argues that the bills will exacerbate the economic challenges facing the North, including poverty, unemployment, and poor infrastructure ².

Overall, the passage of President Tinubu's tax reform bills has sparked a heated debate about the future of Nigeria's tax system and its impact on different regions of the country. As the bills continue to make their way through the legislative process, it remains to be seen how they will be received by stakeholders and the general public.