The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has assured stakeholders that the legislative body will consider their proposals and recommendations in the final report on four key tax reform bills before their passage. The bills under review include the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
Represented by the Majority Leader, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Speaker Abbas made the pledge during his opening remarks at a public hearing on the tax reform bills organized by the House Committee on Finance in Abuja. He emphasized that the bills aim to diversify Nigeria’s revenue base, promote equity, and create an enabling environment for investment and innovation.
“These bills are critical to our nation’s economic growth and development. We are committed to ensuring that all stakeholder inputs are carefully considered to achieve a robust and inclusive tax system,” Abbas stated.
However, the Nigeria Customs Service raised concerns over Section 40 of the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, warning that its implementation could threaten the agency’s existence. The Customs Service urged lawmakers to review the provision to avoid undermining its operations.
The public hearing provided a platform for stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector representatives, and civil society organizations, to contribute to the legislative process. The House of Representatives reiterated its commitment to passing bills that address Nigeria’s economic challenges and foster sustainable development.
