Tinubu commends governors for supporting tax reform bills

President Bola Tinubu stated on Friday that the major goal of the Tax Reform Bills, which he defined as “pro-poor,” is to promote national interests, increase Nigeria’s economic competitiveness, and attract both domestic and international investment.

Tinubu made the comment while applauding the Nigeria Governors’ Forum on their unanimous approval of the four Tax Reform Bills now being considered by the National Assembly.

He praised the governors for their strong leadership and dedication to promoting unity among leaders across Nigeria, overcoming regional, ethnic, and political boundaries to progress the country’s development.

A statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said: “Thursday’s productive consultation between the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy is a commendable example of cooperation between the Federal and State governments.

“He extends special commendations to the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, for successfully galvanising support among his peers for these transformative tax bills to rejuvenate the national economy and enhance Nigeria’s investment climate.

“He also commends the Progressive Governors Forum, the Northern Governors Forum, and all other groups that made the bipartisan resolution of the controversy stirred by the tax bills possible.

“President Tinubu underscores that the primary aim of the Tax Reform Bills, which is pro-poor, is to promote national interests, improve the competitiveness of Nigeria’s economy, and attract both local and foreign investments.”

Tinubu said updating the country’s outdated tax laws is essential to this endeavour.

The President noted that the dialogue between the NGF and the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform highlights the power of constructive conversation in resolving differences.

The statement added: “President Tinubu regards the governors as vital contributors to nation-building and affirms his commitment to partnering with them to promote economic growth, national harmony, peace, and stability.

“He also encourages other stakeholders with ideas and suggestions for refining the Tax Bills to engage with the ongoing legislative process at the National Assembly.

“Finally, President Tinubu urges the National Assembly to expedite the legislative process for these crucial bills so that the country can swiftly reap the benefits of the reforms.”