The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Ohanaeze and the order for disorder

    Ohanaeze and the order for disorder

    • By Kene Obiezu

    Sir: In two different cities, Enugu and Port Harcourt, Ohaneze Ndigbo, the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization supposedly held the same election and produced two presidents. Clearly, one of them is a meddlesome interloper. But who? And in whose interest is it that the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization in the country is sundered?

    In an age of division, especially with the Igbo again politically marginalized in the country, it is the worst time possible for a division, any kind of division.

    To its eternal credit, Ohanaeze has been a beacon of consistency for so long now. When there have been issues that have affected the Igbo, and there have been many over the years, in the wider context of the chaos Nigeria sometimes characteristically churns out daily, Ohanaeze has not exactly been  confrontational. Skillfully, it has always traded the fleeting rush of confrontation for discretion and prudence which would always serve it best, employing the deft mental dexterity inherent in every Igbo entrepreneur who has had to trade to survive.

    With two factions emerging band clearly determined to go head-to-head as indicated by the two factional presidents in separate interviews, each claiming legitimacy, feigning ignorance of the other, and indicating they will be no push over, is the group which is so strategic to the Igbo and which until now has resisted the forces of destabilization and division about to fracture? If that happens, it will be catastrophic.

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    As things stand in Nigeria, the Igbo are only managing to cling on by their fingernails. While it is true, that economically, they have managed to keep the wolves out of the door thanks to their unmatched business finesse, politically, they have remained very much on the fringes with their defiant independence over the years making it very difficult to enter into the kind of compromise politics thrives on.

    Given this atmosphere of barely concealed and congealed hostility, can the Igbo afford to be divided? Can they afford to have their ranks decimated by division?

    Finally, the forces of division have succeeded in fatally fracturing the pan-Igbo organization. The most immediate consequence will be the loss of clarity and credibility. Further down the line, a loss of hope will be an even more serious consequence.

    For the Igbo in Nigeria, it is time to pull closer. Considered vanquished after the civil war, they have always had to fight for all they have with space on the table increasingly denied them. Through these fights many of them dirty and bloody, Ohanaeze has been a consistent voice and a constant thorn in the flesh of those who threaten the interest of the Igbo in Nigeria.

    Far from being an Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze has always defended the unity of Nigeria, defying again and again the parochial expectations of those who reduce the work of cultural organizations to the bare-bones of provincialism. It is noteworthy that during the end bad governance protests of August 2024, while traditional pro-Nigerian centers went up in flames, the Southeast, restrained by Ohanaeze, refused to jump on the back of the infant government.

    Those who seek to fracture Ohanaeze and silence it are enemies of not just the Igbo but the country as a whole. They must be stopped.

    •Kene Obiezu,

    keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • Governor Uba Sani, please save primary education

    Governor Uba Sani, please save primary education

    • By Ibrahim Mustapha

    Sir: Primary education, being the first stage of formal education lays the foundation for future learning and plays a critical role in shaping a child’s cognitive, emotional and social development. A strong foundation in primary education sets the stage for future academic achievements. A well-educated population contributes to a country’s economic growth and competitiveness.

    It is however sad to note that primary education in Kaduna State is facing serious challenges ranging from shortage of manpower, lack of motivation to infrastructural deficit. What crippled the development of primary education in the state is the consequences of former governor, Nasir El-Rufai’s irrational decisions to axe over 25,000 primary school teachers in 2017. Nigerians will recall that the administration of El-Rufai, in a bid to reform education sector and flush what it described as unqualified teachers, conducted examination leading to disqualification of thousands of teachers. El-Rufai decision came after education experts had advised him to consider training and retraining of those teachers.

    The sacking of thousands teachers created a huge manpower gap and negatively affected primary school education in the state. Unfortunately, subsequent recruitment exercises by the state government failed to address the personnel shortage. Many schools that had enough teaching staff prior to El-Rufai’s destructive policy were forced to manage inadequate teachers. For instance, there were hundreds of school with high enrolment that could hardly parade five staff in the aftermath. Even some of the recruited teachers had to abandon their duty posts citing poor conditions of service by the last administration.

    With the new Sheriff in town, one had expected Governor Uba Sani to have reviewed some of the El-Rufai’s policy seen to hamper the development of primary education and formulate new ones.

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    No doubt, primary schools in Kaduna State are gasping and need urgent oxygen to survive. The schools are baffling with shortage of teaching staff. A visit to rural schools will reveal the dire condition of primary education which demands an expedited action. While some NGOs like BESDA and AGILE have come to the aid of our nearly collapsing primary education through building of modern classes to bridge infrastructural facilities and give primary education a facelift, it is high time state government did its own part. During 2025 budget presentation, Governor Uba Sani, stated that his government has set aside 26.14% of the budget to education sector. This is cheering news.

    We passionately appeal to the governor to fix the multi-faceted problems that bedevil primary education in the state. This can be achieved through the scale up of recruitment. There is the need for government to recruit more teachers as many schools are without the needed teachers. Government should also pay serious attention to the training of teachers. This will help them to acquire new teaching methods and innovation. It will also go a long way towards assisting them to excel in their profession.

    Moreover, primary school teachers hardly receive their salaries on time. With high cost of living in the country, starving teachers will translate to teachers not paying full attention to their teaching jobs let alone passing knowledge to the younger ones. Besides timely payment of their salary, government should consider approving rural allowance to teachers posted to rural areas. This will spur them to give their best.

     The development of other stages of education depends largely on primary education. It is the foundation upon which other stages are built. By addressing the challenges and leveraging innovation, Governor Uba Sani can improve the quality and accessibility of primary education which will ultimately empower future generations to succeed in the state.

    • Ibrahim Mustapha,

     Pambegua, Kaduna State.

  • Trump’s second term and Nigeria

    Trump’s second term and Nigeria

     Sir: Donald Trump’s ascension as the 47th President of the United States has sparked intense interest globally, with Nigeria being no exception. As President Trump assumes office, Nigerians are eager to understand the potential implications of his presidency on their nation.

    Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has already extended congratulations to Trump, expressing his trust that the US president will bring the world closer to peace and prosperity. This sentiment is shared by the government, which has acknowledged the significant influence of the US on global affairs.

    Historically, US-Nigeria relations have fluctuated depending on the ruling party in the US. During Republican administrations, relations have been characterized by targeted engagement and interests, with a focus on trade and investment. In contrast, Democratic administrations have prioritized democracy, human rights, and development aid.

    Under Trump’s first presidency, Nigeria benefited from increased military and counter-terrorism support, which could continue under his new administration. On the economic front, Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy may lead to increased trade and investment between the US and Nigeria, particularly in sectors like oil and gas. Nevertheless, his administration’s stance on climate change and global health may have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s development.

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    In the realm of global politics, Trump’s presidency may lead to a shift in the dynamics of international relations, with potential implications for Nigeria’s position within the global community. As the world navigates this new landscape, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how Trump’s administration will engage with their nation.

    Ultimately, the impact of Trump’s presidency on Nigeria will depend on various factors, including his administration’s policies, the response of the Nigerian government, and the evolving global context. As the situation unfolds, one thing is certain – the relationship between Nigeria and the US under Trump’s leadership will be closely scrutinized.

    •Folawiyo Kareem Olajoku, Ph.D.Abuja.

  • Tankers of death

    Tankers of death

    Sir: Another day, another fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria. The opening month of the year is only just hurtling to a close, but already Nigeria is harvesting death in numbers. Niger State is in the news, yet again. A nightmare state. On Friday, January 17, a tanker exploded in Suleja, killing more than 80 persons including a pregnant woman and leaving dozens injured. The incident has expectedly thrown the country into mourning. It was never the news anyone bargained for to start the year and if this is a sign of things to come, it means Nigeria is signing on for a very long year indeed.

    This accident which has thrown families into mourning in the morning of a new year is far from isolated. In fact, if anything, it is history rekindling its flames and burning all in its way with ferocious fury.

    Niger State recorded a boat mishap in 2024 that drowned more than 50 passengers. Shortly after that, the country was shaken by the fuel tanker explosion which killed well over 100 persons in Majiya, Jigawa State. To demonstrate that even tragedy fails to dish enough deterrent to those being scouted by death, a few days after the tragedy in Majiya, some Nigerians descended on a fallen fuel tanker in Akamkpa Cross Rivers State, regurgitating the excuses and repeating the exercises that had yielded such fatalities only a few days prior.

    In the face of these devastating accidents, who is failing to learn lessons? Nigeria or Nigerians?

    One only needs to look at the environmental genocide in the Niger-Delta to conclude that the discovery of oil has not exactly been the blessing prophesied when the sleepy soil of Oloibiri, Bayelsa State, yielded the first squirt of the black gold in 1956. The slow erosion of Nigerian institutions and entrenchment of corruption and complacency vociferously argues against the canonization of oil as Nigeria’s saving grace.

    The frequency of these accidents simply shows that Nigeria is not a serious country. Of course, it is entirely in the character of a country with a chillingly low quality of life and even lower life expectancy to be careless with the lives of those living in it.

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    When these heavy-duty fuel tankers filled with fuel hit the road, what safety measures are taken? What safety protocols are observed to ensure that they are kept safe for themselves and others? The frequency with which they occur and the dizzying speed with which Nigeria moves on from them to await the next accident shows that not enough is being done.

    On their part, Nigerians are not doing enough to stay safe and alive in a country where death is never far away. Survival is a instinct as primal as it is wild. But of what use are the risks taken to survive if death mops everything up in the blink of an eye.

    Those Nigerians who wield poverty like a shield rather than a sword justify the needless, reckless risks they take. The result of such senseless carelessness is a death by the number.

    Nigeria should be thoroughly tired of these tragedies by now. It should be seen to be doing all it can to stop these needless deaths. Africa’s largest democracy and economy deserves to be posting progress and not post-mortem reports of avoidable deaths so early in the year and every month of the year.

    •Ike Willie-Nwobu,Ikewilly9@gmail.com

  • What to do before removing road bumps

    What to do before removing road bumps

    Sir: The Honourable Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, recently gave an order for the removal of speed-breakers or road bumps on the highways.

    Research has revealed that most of the bumps were put in those places because of the excessive speed of drivers which has led to the loss of many lives. Ironically, the speed bumps have also caused damages to vehicles and loss of lives due to the ignorance of the drivers to the presence of those bumps.

    There must be traffic signs to indicate the presence of speed bumps so that drivers can safely slow down before getting to them. The speed bumps on Obajana – Kabba road has no single traffic sign to alert drivers of the bumps ahead. The only sign is the concrete block placed on the side of each bump, not a warning sign before the bump. The concrete blocks on the bumps are not painted nor marked to make them visible from afar before getting there.

    The bumps were not marked with paint for easy identification from afar. The absence of these signs and markings have led to many accidents, loss of lives and valuable properties on the Obajana – Kabba road and nothing has been done to correct these lapses. Towards the Kabba end of the road, the bump at the slope near a police checkpoint was wrongly positioned. Bumps must not be located on a slope. This has caused many accidents and loss of lives. On one incident at this very point, the driver lost control of the bus, somersaulted and caught fire with no passenger saved. Yet, the bump has not been removed from there till now. This is the situation in many parts of Nigeria as at today.

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    Bumps started springing up because of the failure of the government to ensure the relevant traffic signs and road markings, particularly speed limit signs are installed at appropriate locations, quality driver education in Driving Schools, arrest and prosecution of violators of the speed limits. It is also a big surprise that the government agencies at the federal and state levels do not understand the relevance of derestriction signs. Every speed limit sign must be followed by a Derestriction Sign. This has never been done anywhere in Nigeria. The relevant government agencies must always monitor the roads and road infrastructure to know and correct the lapses before they start causing loss of lives and properties.

    The bumps near schools, markets, bus stops, hospitals, busy shopping malls should not be removed even after installing the relevant traffic signs and road markings in such areas. The relevant government MDAs should also specify through Executive Order or memo, what distance must be between one speed bump and the other. It must also be specified, the type of bumps that can be installed on the roads. The way some bumps were constructed has caused a lot of damage to vehicles and vehicle occupants.

    With the evolution of technology, there is a need to complement the traffic signs and road markings with functional CCTV cameras to ease arrest and prosecution of violators of the traffic signs and road markings.

    The order given by the minister on bumps’ removal is good and necessary because of the excesses of the people installing the speed bumps; but the points listed above should be taken into consideration so as to avoid causing more problems than those the minister wants solved.

    •Jide Owatunmise, Lagos.

  • On violence against women

    On violence against women

     Sir: According to the 2024 DOHS Cares Foundation femicide reports, 133 women and girls perished to gender-based violence in 2024 alone. In a country where there is a historical paucity of data, expect that figure to be much higher.

    The grim reality is that women and girls continue to be victims in a society where they should be partners, builders and crucially, peacemakers.

    In a country riven by poverty and insecurity, it is telling that women, who may just hold the key to long-term solutions to societal problems, have been sucked into it more than any other demographic.

    The question of violence against women in Nigeria, fatal in many instances, has been burning for as long as anyone can remember. That very little has been done about it is testament to the dizzying depth of the problem and the reluctance of the society to confront what is a staggering problem.

    But what does violence against women really look like? For starters, it is physical abuse manifest in acts that violate the body. This is especially rife in homes that have long gone sour, with many women having been turned into punching bags in their homes. It is sexual abuse with rape being the most serious of it. Women face sexual abuse all day long, all the days of their life. Discrimination because of sex, for granting or withholding sex, really compounds the problem.

     Again, marriages many of which have become suffocating cages, account for these systematic and systemic marital abuse with many women finding it impossible to escape because of stigma and economic considerations.

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    There is no saying that women need protection. This protection can only be guaranteed by law. Nigeria has the Violence Against Persons Act, which criminalizes any manner of violence against women. But more than having these laws lying around is the need to critically highlight that they have no teeth. Despite the presence of these laws, women continue to be abused. This simply cannot be allowed to continue.

    A crucial mistake stakeholders continue to make in the protection of women is to always dismiss instances of serious abuse as family affairs. This practice has never helped anyone and must clearly stop if Nigeria is to make genuine progress in the protection of women.

    That women should be free from violence of any kind is key to gender equality, which is underpinned by the need to promote equality and prevent discrimination of any kind. Nigeria would be better for it, but certainly cannot do it with so many women dying every year simply because they are women.

    •Kene Obiezu,keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • Reflecting on CBN’s successes

    Reflecting on CBN’s successes

    Sir: In 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) experienced a pivotal transformation under the innovative leadership of Governor Yemi Cardoso. Faced with a myriad of economic challenges that have hindered growth and stability for years, Cardoso introduced a series of comprehensive reforms designed to rejuvenate Nigeria’s economy, stabilize the banking sector, enhance foreign exchange markets, and foster financial inclusion for all citizens. His visionary approach marked a turning point for the CBN, steering the country towards a promising path of recovery and sustainable growth.

    As inflation rates surged to alarming figures exceeding 33% in mid-2024, the CBN had to take decisive steps to re-establish economic stability. In response, Cardoso spearheaded the adoption of a strategic monetary policy aimed at curbing inflation. In July 2024, the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) was increased to an unprecedented 26.75%. This represented the fourth consecutive hike within just seven months, emphasizing the CBN’s unwavering commitment to controlling inflation and restoring confidence in the economy. By August 2024, these robust interventions began to bear fruit, with headline inflation tapering to 32.15%.

    However, the CBN’s strategy extended beyond mere rate hikes. Recognizing that inflation is often driven by supply-side constraints, the CBN actively collaborated with fiscal authorities to tackle underlying issues impacting the economy. Specific challenges, such as agricultural disruptions, high energy costs, and infrastructural inadequacies, were identified and addressed collectively. Furthermore, the CBN placed an emphasis on enhancing credit access to key sectors, such as agriculture and manufacturing. By bolstering domestic production, the CBN aimed to diminish Nigeria’s reliance on imports, a factor that had historically fuelled inflationary pressures.

    Recognizing that a resilient financial system is crucial for economic development, the CBN launched an ambitious recapitalization program designed to strengthen banks’ ability to support economic growth and withstand external shocks. The initiative mandated banks to raise additional capital, thereby enhancing their capacity to meet the country’s investment needs.

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    This recapitalization effort not only fortified the banking sector’s stability but also aligned Nigerian banks with global standards, enabling them to play a more pivotal role in driving economic growth. To further promote competition and resilience within the sector, the CBN streamlined the bank licensing process, actively encouraging the establishment of new financial institutions. This initiative included the approval of licenses for regional non-interest banks and the expansion of microfinance institutions, aimed at addressing the varied financial needs of individuals and businesses, particularly in underserved and rural communities.

    Confronted with an increasingly unstable foreign exchange market in 2024, characterized by substantial devaluation of the naira, the CBN initiated critical reforms aimed at restoring equilibrium. The implementation of a floating exchange rate system allowed market forces to dictate the currency’s value, thereby reducing speculative activities and narrowing the gap between official and parallel market rates. This bold move not only contributed to the restoration of stability in the foreign exchange market but also enhanced transparency, ultimately restoring confidence among investors.

    The CBN’s innovative approaches to enhancing remittance flows played a critical role in fortifying the foreign exchange market. By September 2024, monthly remittances had increased to $600 million, acknowledging a significant increase from previous levels.

    Perhaps one of the most commendable aspects of the present administration was the steadfast commitment to promoting financial inclusion and driving digital transformation within Nigeria’s financial ecosystem. Recognizing the importance of ensuring that every Nigerian has access to financial services, the CBN rolled out numerous initiatives as part of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS). This ambitious plan sought to incorporate historically underserved populations into the formal financial system.

    A hallmark accomplishment of the CBN’s commitment to financial inclusion was the establishment of Payment Service Banks (PSBs). These institutions were specifically designed to provide affordable and accessible financial services to millions of Nigerians, particularly those residing in remote and rural areas. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, PSBs delivered innovative digital banking solutions, ultimately enhancing the ease of accessing financial products and services.

    Moreover, the CBN actively supported the growth of digital payment systems, facilitating greater access to financial services for individuals who were previously excluded. Initiatives such as the introduction of mobile banking platforms and digital wallets empowered Nigerians to engage in financial transactions with enhanced convenience and security. This technological drive not only improved access to banking services but also fostered a culture of savings and financial literacy among the populace.

    The initiatives crafted under Cardoso’s stewardship not only aimed to bring immediate relief to pressing economic issues but also laid the groundwork for sustainable growth in the years to come. By fostering a more inclusive financial environment and enhancing the stability of key economic sectors, the CBN under Cardoso is poised to create a thriving economic landscape that benefits all Nigerians, ultimately steering the nation towards a prosperous future.

    •Isah Aliyu Chiroma,aliyuisahchiroma29@gmail.com

  • The military and accidental bombings

    The military and accidental bombings

    Sir: The persistent tragedy of ‘accidental bombings’ by the military has left a devastating mark on the lives of innocent citizens. These incidents, often described as “mistakes,” have become alarmingly recurrent, generating widespread grief, outrage, and calls for accountability. It is both subconsciously saddening and puzzling to witness such preventable losses of life in a nation that seeks to protect its citizens.

    The most recent incident occurred on December 27, 2024, when an airstrike targeting Lakurawa terrorists mistakenly hit Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 10 villagers, while several others sustained injuries. Just days before, another “accidental” strike claimed the lives of several villagers in Zamfara State. These incidents are not isolated, and the frequency with which they occur raises pressing questions about the competence and precision of military operations.

    The year 2023 also witnessed similar tragedies. One of the most shocking incidents involved an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force that killed 37 people, including herders, near the boundary between Benue and Nasarawa states in Doma Local Government Area. Earlier, a drone strike by the Nigerian Army resulted in the deaths of 85 villagers in Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Such events have repeatedly shattered communities and left survivors battling with unending grief.

    These accidental bombings are not merely numbers or statistics. Behind every casualty is a human story—families torn apart, children orphaned, and communities plunged into mourning.

    The recurring nature of these incidents points to systemic issues within the Nigerian military. Questions abound regarding the accuracy of intelligence, the training of personnel, and the use of technology in military operations. Why do these “mistakes” keep happening, and what measures are being taken to prevent them? These are questions that demand honest answers from the authorities.

    Military operations require meticulous planning and execution, especially in densely populated areas. The use of drones, airstrikes, and other advanced weaponry necessitates a high level of precision to minimize collateral damage. Unfortunately, it seems the Nigerian military is struggling to achieve this standard.

    Another concern is the apparent lack of accountability. Each time an accidental bombing occurs, the public is presented with apologies and promises of investigations. However, these investigations rarely yield tangible outcomes or lead to meaningful changes.

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    It is high time the Nigerian military re-strategized its approach to counterterrorism and other operations. One fundamental step is to invest in advanced technology and training for personnel. Precision-guided munitions, real-time surveillance, and improved communication systems can significantly reduce the risk of collateral damage. Additionally, personnel must be adequately trained to interpret intelligence and execute operations with a focus on minimizing civilian casualties.

    Collaboration with local communities is another avenue worth exploring. Villagers often possess valuable on-the-ground intelligence that can help the military plan operations more effectively.

    Moreover, the government must institute robust mechanisms for accountability. Independent oversight committees should be established to investigate incidents of accidental bombings and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Such measures will not only provide justice to victims but also serve as a deterrent against future negligence.

    The emotional and psychological toll of these tragedies cannot be overstated. Survivors and affected families often bear the scars of these incidents for a lifetime. The government must prioritize providing adequate compensation and support to victims. This includes financial assistance, access to healthcare, and programs aimed at rebuilding affected communities. The government and military must take decisive action to end this cycle of tragedy and restore public confidence in their ability to safeguard the nation.

    The path forward will not be easy, but it is necessary. The military must rise to the occasion, not only by enhancing its operational capabilities but also by demonstrating a genuine commitment to the lives and well-being of all Nigerians. Only then can we hope for a future free from the shadow of accidental bombings.

    •Kasim Isa Muhammad,Potiskum, Yobe State.

  • Whither Afenifere?

    Whither Afenifere?

    Sir: Since the return to civil rule in 1999, Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-cultural organization has suffered series of set-backs that have impeded its effectiveness. Foremost among Afenifere’s series of setbacks was the emergence of splinter groups – a development that has weakened the bond of amity and peaceful coexistence that hitherto characterized the organization since its founding.

    The Afenifere Renewal Group, a breakaway splinter group by the organisation’s former Secretary General, Wale Oshun seems to have created irreparable vacuum;  a formidable personality that has the capacity to even lead the organization to the future.

    Then there was the sudden death of the publicity secretary, Yinka Odumakin. His death, a couple of years ago, seems to have ruined the vibrancy and fervency of the Afenifere, such that one wonders if the organization is still on course especially in its socio-cultural roles. As a result of the disagreement between incumbent leader, Pa Fasoranti and elder statesman, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Odumakin’s successor, Jare Ajayi appears to be completely hamstrung to perform the duty of the publicity secretary of the organization.

    At the age of 90 and above, Chief Fasonranti is already constrained to perform the duty of the office of the leader of Afenifere effectively and nobody seems to be filling the gap. Such vacuum constitutes a dent on the psyche of the organization and a rob on the numerous Yorubas who look on to the Afenifere to provide one succour or the other in an interdependent society like ours.

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    In order to restore sanity to the Afenifere as a socio-cultural organization, there must be a review of its constitution to permit a rotational leadership, to be elected for a period of five years of one term tenure-ship.

    This is the practice in Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Arewa. The six states of southwest geo-political zone should be given each the deputy leadership position. The position of all other offices too should be rotational and with fixed term of five years.

    The idea of a life-time leader of Afenifere should be discountenanced after the exit of the incumbent, Chief Rueben Fasonranti. The idea of rotational leadership will give room for young and vibrant individuals to aspire to be president as against the present gerontocracy.

    Whoever is the leader of Afenifere stands as Yoruba leader and all hands must be on deck to support the leadership as the representative of the race among other socio-cultural groups in the country.

    •Sunday Olagunju,Ibadan, Oyo State.

  • Tax reform of many controversies

    Tax reform of many controversies

    Sir: As the year 2024 drew to a close, the political climate was engulfed with conversations and counter conversations on the  proposed tax reform bill that is currently being considered by the National Assembly. The tax reform bill, a brain child of the executive arm of the government has been seen to hold the prospect for major changes in the Nigerian tax system by some, while others see it as another divisive instrument in letters.

    On the positive side, one of the major purposes of the bill is to reform Nigeria’s tax system particularly its colonial components as it is deemed unfavorable and requires reform, hence plundering the nation into revenue losses leading to slow pace of development.

    As part of the efforts of President’s Bola Tinubu’s administration in addressing some existential challenges confronting Nigeria, he inaugurated the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms on August 8, 2023 with a challenging mission – to examine the existing system of taxes and determine modifications that seem necessary. The committee has since pushed forward its ideas in a piece of legislation believed to be suitable in modernizing the existing tax system. Fundamentally, the reforms are to bring fairness to the taxation system in a way that is most appropriate to the economic status of the country. Thus, the goal of the bill is to achieve a more accurate distribution of the VAT between the regions, and consequently contribute to economic development in the states. The reform bill predicts efficiency of collections of revenues as another benefit, while integrating informal sector that dominates the Nigerian economy but has been an avoidant in the remittance of taxes. This will create an opportunity to widen the tax base to spur the lasting development of the nation and the well-being of the populace.

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    The Northern Governors Forum has vehemently condemned the bill.  The governors urged NASS to pull the bill to enable them to seek broader consultation. The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and some political activists are equally opposed to the bill urging that the bill be withdrawn for adequate national consultation, claiming that the current proposals can worsen the concentration of income and result in massive inequality.

    Truth is – the legislation, if passed could in many ways promote economic growth, especially through the formation of a stable and predictable fiscal environment. The growth in the tax wedge is likely to lead to better results in terms of tax collection which can be spent to create a more affluent society.

    However, the negative perceptions the bill has attracted may have affected the mind of some citizens who may have aligned with the assumptions attributed to it that – the taxes paid by individuals and businesses will have to go up. Though the idea behind the bill is to expand the tax net, there is the fear that it may subsequently result in the introduction of new taxes.

    While the tax reform bill has the potential to revitalize the economy, if businesses view this as an attempt to impose heavier burden on them, then investment will be discouraged and the economy will not grow. This aspect is worrisome for Nigeria more than anything since it depends on FDI to power development and provide people with employment opportunities.

    Given the above, it goes without saying that a comprehensive and equitable tax reform needs to have the willingness of all regions and stakeholders. Healthy debates as well as consultations among and between all stakeholders will be highly pertinent so that the bill will bring good change to the country as a whole when implemented.

    •Michael Olaogun,Abuja.