Governor Hyacinth Alia plans town hall meetings to explain the benefits of the Tax Reform Bills to his people.
The Benue State governor said yesterday that he believes that the Bills are capable of fast-tracking the economy of sub-national governments.
Alia, a Catholic Reverend Father, who has made transparency his watchword of his administration, is optimistic that despite hiccups, the tax bills will be passed and become law.
The governor said he is giving all the backing necessary for bills being considered by the National Assembly.
He said: “I have committed myself to supporting the bills because if passed, the tax law will aid quick development in the states.”
He assured that majority of the governors are in support of the bills.
Explaining the reason for the town hall meetings, he said: “We shall explain it and get the understanding of our people.”
ACF forms panel on Tax Reform Bills
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) yesterday announced the establishment of a committee of experts to review the proposed Tax Reform Bills by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and make appropriate recommendations to relevant authorities.
The forum appealed for mutual respect and restraint in discussing the proposed reforms, emphasizing that no individual or group has a monopoly on wisdom.
“Reforms must address emerging challenges and align with the nation’s collective interest, not sectional or vested interests. This process requires patience, decorum, and inclusivity,” the forum said in a statement .
They called for calm and tolerance over the proposal before the Senate.
The forum urged stakeholders to embrace constructive dialogue in line with democratic principles.
In the statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the forum expressed concern over what it called the acrimonious nature of the ongoing debates, which it said had led to divisions and disrespectful exchanges.
Read Also: Governor Hyacinth Alia praises Tinubu’s dedication to Nigerians’ well-being
“It is regrettable that discussions on the bills have turned acrimonious, with some resorting to abusive language. Public debates are an essential part of the democratic process, and differing opinions should be respected,” the statement said.
The ACF highlighted concerns raised by stakeholders, including the National Economic Council, suggesting that insufficient consultations were conducted in preparing the bills. It also noted the Federal Government’s apparent urgency to pass the legislation, which has raised suspicions among critics.
The forum hailed the Senate’s decision to engage in broader consultations with stakeholders to address contentious provisions.
“We urge all parties to contribute constructively to the legislative process to ensure the emergence of robust laws that serve the entire country,” it added.
Matawalle: reforms will ease burden on ordinary citizen
From the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, came yesterday an assurance to Northerners: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed Tax Reform Bills would ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.
He said that the reforms would foster a more business-friendly environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, which would eventually create jobs for the teeming population.
The minister, who gave the assurance in a statement, noted that Tinubu’s robust economic policies and reforms were yielding significant positive results for the country.
According to him, these initiatives are contributing to a turnaround in the economy that will benefit all Nigerians.
Matawalle urged critics, especially from the North, to be positive in their narratives.
He also called other citizens to remain steadfast in their support for the President and to reject divisive narratives.
He said: “It is crucial for Nigerians to stand united behind Mr. President, who is diligently working hard to revitalize our economy through a series of effective policies, programmes and reforms.”
“Tinubu’s tax reforms as a pivotal element in the country’s economic turnaround. These reforms are designed to create a more equitable tax system, which will enhance revenue generation for the government while easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.
“By broadening the tax base and ensuring that everyone pays their fair share, President Tinubu is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth, easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.”
In the defence, the minister noted that there has been an improvements in national security under the curreent administration.
He said that President Tinubu had made substantial strides in enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian military through the provision of modern hardware and equipment.
The minister said that the current administration has boosted the morale of the members of the military through timely payment of their allowances and salary increases.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing a renewed commitment to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians, and I encourage everyone to recognize the positive changes taking place,” Matawalle added.