Arewa Groups Back Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Say North Stands to Gain

Amid the ongoing public hearing on President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, the Northern Union and other Arewa groups have thrown their weight behind the proposed changes, declaring that the reforms will significantly benefit Northern Nigeria.

The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday commenced a two-day public hearing on the tax reform bills, which include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. The bills aim to create a comprehensive framework for taxation in the country, bringing together key stakeholders from the economic and financial sectors.

Speaking on behalf of the Arewa coalition, Alhaji Adamu Muazu Garuba, convener of the Northern Union, highlighted the potential benefits of the tax reforms for the North, despite initial resistance from some Northern leaders.

“A simplified tax system will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region,” Garuba said. “This will lead to increased economic activity, improved living standards, and a reduction in poverty levels.”

He emphasized that the North, being a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economy, would experience far-reaching advantages, including reduced tax compliance costs, which will ease the burden on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“The reforms will promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation in the region,” Garuba added. “Increased revenue from the reforms will also enable governments in the North to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programs, addressing long-standing challenges in healthcare, education, and transportation.”

Garuba also pointed out the fairness embedded in the proposed tax system, noting that it would reduce multiple taxation, lighten the load on low-income earners, and promote transparency and accountability.

“The tax reform bills will foster social justice, reduce poverty, and build trust between the government and the people,” he said, while commending Senate Committee Chairman, Senator Sani Musa, for his impartial leadership during the public hearing.

Garuba called on northerners to support the tax reforms, stressing that they are in the region’s best interest and key to unlocking its economic potential.