Tag: Speaker Abbas

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen has stressed the need to reform the nation’s tax system for maximum growth, saying there is no way the country can move forward based on its current tax system. 

The Speaker, who spoke when the leadership of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) visited said Nigeria was among countries with the lowest level of revenue generation.

The House on Wednesday passed for second reading the four executive bills on tax reform and has now been referred to the House Committee on Finance who will now subject them to public scrutiny through a public hearing. 

The Speaker said stakeholders, especially the CITN, would be engaged at the public hearing on the legislation before the end of February.

The Speaker said: “The House, just yesterday, in a historic manner, passed for second reading, the four tax bills submitted by Mr. President – in an unprecedented manner, with everybody supportive of it. It is really unprecedented, and that opens the door for us to begin looking at what the future has for this country.

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“I am one of those who believe that this country can never move forward if our tax systems remain the way they are. We need to reform them so that the government can generate more revenue.

“Nigeria is one country – as I keep on saying – that is underperforming when it comes to revenue generation. Nigeria is ranked among the lowest, even in Africa, in terms of revenue collection because our tax system has not been overhauled to generate the desired revenue for the country to develop all its sectors.”

The Speaker said the mandate of the CITN tallies with the aspirations of the House as contained in the 10th House Legislative Agenda. 

He added that the parliament would partner with the institute to ensure that Nigeria is “taken to the next level.” 

He stressed that the visit coincided with the time when the House was dealing with taxation. 

“I promise you that we will work and partner for the common good of Nigeria,” he said.

CITN president, Samuel Olushola Agbeluyi swid the institute will be 42 years old this February, adding that the Institute presently have 48 district societies and the has the largest number of professionals in the FIRS.

Agbeluyi recalled how CITN championed various reforms, including the introduction of the Finance Act, which the immediate President Muhammadu Buhari assented to. 

He also recalled how the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) failed to make profits and remit revenue to the Federation Account, leaving the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to the country’s rescue.

“Should we have the right attitude to taxation, Nigeria can be great,” Agbeluyi stated.

The CITN president said the visit was for the institute to establish a stronger relationship with the Speaker and the House.

…expert advocates regenerative agriculture to address challenges

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has called for a collective and multi-pronged strategy to combat food insecurity in Nigeria. 

Speaking at the 22nd Daily Trust Dialogue and the presentation of the Daily Trust Unsung Hero 2024 in Abuja, Abbas underscored the critical state of food security in the country.

The event, themed “Food Security: Availability or Affordability?” was organized by the Media Trust Group. 

Represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Hon. Chike John Okafor, Abbas emphasized the dual importance of food availability and affordability in achieving national food security.

He pointed out key challenges, including supply chain inefficiencies, climate change, and rising costs, which continue to undermine Nigeria’s food systems. 

Tracing the sector’s decline to the oil boom of the 1970s, Abbas lamented the shift of focus and investment away from agriculture.

He noted that despite its vast potential, the sector currently contributes less than 30% to Nigeria’s GDP, with smallholder farmers driving most production. 

The Speaker praised the federal government’s renewed emphasis on agriculture under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which aims to expand the cultivation of arable land from 35% to 65% by 2029.

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Other initiatives, he said, include improving rural infrastructure, strengthening farm cooperatives, and increasing access to agricultural financing.

Abbas said climate change is a significant threat to food security, with unpredictable weather patterns and disasters like flooding destroying farmland.

He also said Insecurity, particularly in rural areas, has further compounded food production challenges.

 “Farmers are being displaced, held to ransom, or taxed by non-state actors, making it difficult to harvest crops,” Abbas explained.

He called on the federal government to intensify efforts to restore peace and enable displaced farmers to return to their lands.

Abbas emphasized the importance of youth participation and private-sector investment in agriculture.

He lauded initiatives like the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture’s (IITA) Agripreneurs Programme, which empowers young Nigerians to explore agribusiness.

Private sector investments, which have reached ₦760 billion according to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, were also commended.

Abbas called for sustained efforts to enhance collaboration between the government and private entities in boosting agricultural productivity.

Describing food security as a fundamental right, Abbas called for concerted efforts to lower food costs, modernize agricultural practices, and improve infrastructure.

“No citizen of our dear country should go to bed hungry because of the contest between availability and affordability,” he said.

The Speaker reiterated the commitment of the House of Representatives to supporting legislative frameworks and policies that would guarantee food security.

“We are ready to partner with the media and all stakeholders to ensure that food insecurity becomes a thing of the past,” he concluded.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukthar Maiha, emphasized the urgent need to tackle Nigeria’s food insecurity crisis by leveraging the livestock sector.

The minister acknowledged the alarming statistics on hunger in Nigeria, saying, “Despite our vast agricultural potential, millions of Nigerians face food insecurity daily “

The minister highlighted that per capita milk consumption in Nigeria is a mere 8.7 litres annually, far below the global average of 44 litres and the World Health Organization’s recommended 210 litres.

Similarly, he said, annual meat consumption stands at 7.3 kilograms per capita, a figure he noted must increase to meet the nutritional needs of Nigeria’s projected population of 389 million by 2050.

“By 2050, livestock-derived foods will need to supply 37.4% more energy and 9.0% more protein to address these gaps,” he added, stressing the importance of increasing productivity in the livestock sector.

Maiha identified several systemic issues undermining livestock production, which directly contribute to food insecurity.

These, he said, include policy gaps, land tenure issues, low productivity, and gender inequality.

Maiha underscored the transformative role of livestock farming in addressing hunger.

He described livestock as a vital source of protein-rich foods such as meat, milk, and eggs, which combat malnutrition.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, stated on Tuesday that the parliament would prioritise reforming the nation’s tax system to reduce reliance on external borrowing for funding the budget.

Speaking during the resumption of plenary, the Speaker emphasised that the passage of the Appropriation Bill and the Tax Reform Bills is crucial to Nigeria’s economic recovery and fiscal stability.

He explained that these reforms are vital for expanding the tax base, enhancing compliance, and decreasing dependency on external borrowing.

The House, he assured, will ensure that these reforms are fair and take into account the needs of all Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable.

“As we engage with the budget and other legislative priorities, we must remain meticulous in our scrutiny, ensuring that every proposal aligns with national objectives and delivers tangible benefits to the citizenry. The planned Citizens’ Town Hall on the budget will further reinforce transparency and inclusivity in our decision-making processes”.

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According to him, “The past year was characterised by moments of progress tempered by significant challenges. Tragic events, such as the stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja, and Okija during the distribution of palliative aid, underline the urgent need for improved planning and safety protocols in humanitarian efforts. 

“These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the socioeconomic hardships facing our citizens and the imperative for policies that tackle hunger and poverty at their roots.

The Speaker expressed grief over the death of six soldiers in Borno State, saying “their sacrifice exemplifies the highest dedication to our nation’s safety and sovereignty. We honour their courage and commitment and reiterate our resolve to support efforts to end insecurity in all its forms.

“Similarly, the tragic loss of life in the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa villages of Sokoto State, resulting from the unintended consequences of military operations, underscores the need for a renewed focus on civilian protection in conflict zones. These incidents emphasise the complexities of governance and the necessity for people-centred, comprehensive solutions.

‘Amidst these challenges, the resilience of our security agencies deserves commendation. Their concerted efforts have significantly reduced threats across the country, demonstrating their courage and the growing efficacy of coordinated military operations.

“The House remains steadfast in supporting these efforts through legislative measures that enhance security frameworks and address emerging threats.”

The Speaker said in 2024, the economy presented both difficulties and opportunities, saying “While inflation remains a pressing concern, progress in GDP growth and the positive trajectory of economic reforms provide hope for a more stable and prosperous 2025. 

“The ongoing revival of the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries and increased competition in the oil market have already begun to moderate fuel prices. We encourage the swift operationalisation of the Kaduna refinery to alleviate further economic pressures on households and businesses.

“The Constitutional Review Committee, under the leadership of the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Honourable Benjamin Kalu continues to make commendable progress. The extensive consultations and rigorous review of over 350 memoranda demonstrate the depth of public engagement in shaping our nation’s foundational document. 

“We anticipate that the outcomes of this process will address longstanding governance challenges and promote inclusivity, equity, and accountability. Besides constitutional amendments, the House is committed to advancing legislative frameworks that address critical national issues, including gender equality, electoral reform, and energy infrastructure. 

“As custodians of the legislative process, we must approach these tasks with resolve and an acute awareness of their implications for Nigeria’s development trajectory.

“One of the key mandates of the legislature is to promote accountability. Nigerians look to us for transparent, responsive, and results-oriented leadership. The success of initiatives such as the Open Parliament and the “State of the House” live chats underscores the value of direct engagement with the public. 

“These platforms will remain integral to our efforts to foster trust and demonstrate our commitment to the ideals of representative democracy.

The Speaker said while collaboration with the executive arm is crucial, the House must While uphold it’s independence and continue to engage constructively with other branches of government to achieve its shared aim of national progress.

He said: “This partnership, built on mutual respect and a common vision, is essential for addressing the complex challenges our nation confronts.

“As we commence this legislative year, let us renew our commitment to the principles of service, equity, and progress. Nigerians have legitimate expectations, and rightly so. Our citizens aspire to a safer, more prosperous nation, where opportunities flourish, and governance reflects the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

“We should embrace these expectations not as burdens but as the driving force behind our collective mission. By working with purpose, unity, and resolve, we can transform challenges into opportunities and aspirations into realities.

Speaking on the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, he said “let us honour the sacrifices of our fallen heroes and the unwavering commitment of our service members. 

The House will continue championing their welfare and ensuring their contributions to our nation are met with the recognition and support they deserve.

“2025 demands our best efforts and our unwavering focus on the mandate entrusted to us by the people. Let us work together to ensure that this year stands as a testament to the transformative power of effective governance.”

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu, have called on Nigerians to use the Christmas season to pray for unity, peace, and a national rebirth.

In separate messages to Christians marking the birth of Jesus Christ, the lawmakers extended their warm wishes and encouraged citizens to embrace the season’s significance.

Speaker Abbas, in a message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, described the birth of Christ as a symbol of newness and fulfillment. 

He urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity to pray for a better Nigeria that fulfills the aspirations of its people.

He also called for prayers for the nation’s leaders—political, religious, and traditional—while emphasizing the importance of love, unity, and peace across ethnic and religious divides. 

“I am hopeful that Nigeria will soon become a country every citizen is proud of,” Abbas said.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu echoed these sentiments, highlighting the profound significance of Christmas as a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of humanity.

Both leaders wished Christians joyful celebrations and urged them to remain steadfast in their prayers for the nation’s growth and stability.

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He noted that Christmas represents a time of hope, renewal, and celebration, reminding us of the importance of kindness, compassion, generosity, and love.

“As we mark the birth of Jesus Christ, who brought light and redemption to humanity, let us reflect on the values that He embodied: love, forgiveness, and selflessness. May His example inspire us to spread love, kindness, and compassion to all those around us, especially those who may be struggling,” Kalu said.

Kalu also expressed his confidence in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring Nigerians that the future looks promising. 

He urged the citizens to remain steadfast in their faith and to continue praying for the country’s leadership and working together towards a more united and prosperous Nigeria.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has emphasized the critical need for Nigeria to expand its revenue base to meet the aspirations of its citizens. 

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on the House’s activities for 2024, he highlighted that increasing revenue is essential for expanding the country’s infrastructure.

“To expand our infrastructure, we need to expand our revenue base. That is the number one area where we must work. Unless we have enough revenue, we cannot build our infrastructure the way we want,” the Speaker stated.

Tajudeen also introduced a new initiative to increase transparency and communication between the House and the people, announcing that the parliament would hold stakeholder engagements with Nigerians twice annually. 

The next engagement is scheduled for June 2025.

The Speaker further noted that 11 percent of the bills sponsored by members in 2024 focus on infrastructure, but emphasized the limited role of the legislature in directly driving infrastructure development.

He also reiterated his earlier promise to engage the youth twice a year, with the most recent town halls held on July 31 and December 16, 2024.

“We delivered that promise less than a week ago. I want to assure Nigerians that this kind of engagement will be taking place twice in a year,” Tajudeen affirmed.

The session also saw discussions on the introduction of sign language in plenary to make parliamentary proceedings more inclusive, especially for people with hearing difficulties. The House also revealed plans to implement youth and gender-friendly budgets and promised more continuous engagement with stakeholders.

Former Speaker Patricia Etteh commended the House for its progress over the past 18 months and urged the need to communicate these achievements in local languages to rural communities. 

She also advocated for faster progress on increasing women’s representation in governance through legislative action.

Ex-Speaker Yakubu Dogara emphasized the importance of engaging citizens to hear their needs and aspirations. 

He stressed that citizen input is vital for sustaining the democratic process and ensuring that the legislature truly represents the people.

Others on the panel with the Speaker Include Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu; Majority Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere; Deputy Majority Leader, Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims; Minority Leader,  Kingsley Chinda; Chairperson, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), Zainab Gimba, and Chairman, House Committee on Healthcare Institutions, Patrick Umoh.

Stakeholders at the session include a delegation from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), led by the President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya, NUJ chairperson, Abuja Chapter, Grace Ike, representative of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Kemi Yesufu. 

Also in attendance were the chairman, Albino Foundation, Jake Epelle; the Speaker of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Dr. Azeezat Yishau; representatives of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Christian Association of Nigeria; civil societies; representatives of traditional rulers, among others.

Former speakers of the House, Rt. Patricia Olubunmi Etteh and Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara as well as an ex-deputy speaker, Rt. Hon. Babangida Nguroje, were in attendance.

The Speaker-led panel of the House also answered sundry questions from the audience. The questions bothered on economy, security, education, health, youths, and people living with disabilities, among others.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said on Friday that he was not indebted to the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

The Speaker, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, stated that he had paid all his obligations to the FCDA since October 2024.

Media reports had listed the Speaker and former President Muhammadu Buhari among those whose land had been revoked for non-payment of the accrued fees.

The statement reads: “The attention of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has been drawn to reports in both the print and electronic media to the effect that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) revoked land titles in the FCT, belonging to certain individuals, including the Speaker, due to non-settlement of outstanding payments.

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“For the record, His Excellency, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, has only one land allocated to him in the FCT and has since settled his outstanding payment in October 2024, following the FCTA’s publications in newspapers to that effect.

“It is, therefore, an error for the FCTA to include his name among those with outstanding payments, leading to the revocation of their land titles. The FCTA is advised to be more circumspect in handling such issues.

“The Speaker cautions the media to always verify their facts before going to press on such matters.

“The media are, therefore, urged to desist from further publishing or spreading such misleading information about the Speaker.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen said on Monday that the House will ensure that the 2025 budget meets the aspirations of the Nigerian people. 

Speaking at a townhall meeting with youth groups, the Speaker said he has also reached out to women groups and artisans to make their voice heard to ensure that the budget truely reflect the aspirations of the Nigerian people. 

He said gatherings like the townhall highlights the vital role of the youths in shaping the future of the nation, saying “it acknowledges that you, the youth of Nigeria, are not just the leaders of tomorrow but active participants in the governance and development of today.

“Your energy, creativity, and resilience are transforming every sector of our society, from agriculture to technology, arts, sports and entrepreneurship. Across these fields, you demonstrate that Nigerian youth can achieve greatness with the right support and opportunities.

“Yet, we must ask ourselves: how can you do even more? How can we, as leaders, create an enabling environment that allows your potential to flourish fully? This dialogue is, therefore, so important to explore how government policies, budgets, and programmes can better support you in taking your rightful place as drivers of national development.

“At this townhall, we must also discuss a critical subject that affects not just your future but the very future of our nation: leadership recruitment. The responsibility of building the next generation of leaders must not be left to chance. 

“Political parties, as key institutions of democracy, have an urgent role to play in identifying, nurturing, and empowering young people to assume leadership positions.

“In recognition of our young people’s incredible potential, the National Assembly enacted the Not Too Young To Run Act, which lowered the age requirement for elective offices. 

“This landmark legislation opened up new opportunities for young Nigerians to actively participate in governance, enabling those with the vision, energy, and competence to step forward. However, more than the law is needed; political parties must take this further by deliberately mentoring and supporting young aspirants, ensuring they have the tools and resources to succeed.

“Across Africa and beyond, young people are demonstrating that they can excel when given the opportunity to lead. In Senegal, Macky Sall was appointed Prime Minister at just 40 years old and later became President of the country, demonstrating the importance of youth leadership and how early preparation can shape effective leaders. 

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“In Finland, Sanna Marin became Prime Minister at the age of 34, showing the world how youthful energy, combined with competence and vision, can guide a nation. Similarly, Bogolo Kenewendo of Botswana, who was appointed Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry at 31, transformed her country’s trade policies and became a symbol of progressive leadership.”

Speaker Abbas said the Townhall marks another step in the series of consultations leading up to the President’s 2025 Budget presentation, adding that these consultations are integral to the commitment of the House to participatory governance. 

He said: “In addition to engaging with you today, we have also reached out to women groups and will continue to interact with other stakeholders across diverse sectors to ensure that the 2025 Budget truly reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians.

He stresses that the Townhall focuses on youth-based budgeting, which addresses the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities of young people. 

He said further: “Youth-based budgeting ensures that resources are allocated in ways that positively impact the lives and futures of young individuals, such as funding for technology hubs, skills training programs, and mental health services. 

“In countries where this model has been implemented, the outcomes have been impressive, leading to increased youth participation in governance and better socio-economic conditions. Nigeria should strive for these results.

“I encourage all of you to speak boldly and clearly about your demands, expectations, and aspirations for the 2025 Budget. This is your chance to provide concrete input that will shape our deliberations. 

“While we recognise the reality of resource constraints, prioritisation is essential. Furthermore, prioritisation can only be effective when it is guided by the voices of those directly affected by government decisions — you, the youth.”

While appreciation patriotism and determination of young Nigerians to succeed against all odds, the Speaker reminded them that “these qualities inspire hope and confidence in our nation’s future. However, I challenge you to go further. 

“Organise yourselves as a cohesive and systematic group to articulate and present your desires to the government. When you channel your collective energy into structured advocacy, you amplify your impact and gain recognition as constructive partners in governance, rather than being misinterpreted as disruptors.

“As we participate in this important dialogue, let’s remember our shared goal is to build a better Nigeria that benefits all its citizens, especially the youth. I urge everyone to approach today’s discussions with open minds and a collective dedication to crafting a budget that embodies our national vision and fulfills your aspirations”.

The Speaker said: “The challenges of our time, from climate change to digital transformation, economic shocks to global security issues, demand leaders who are prepared, knowledgeable, and visionary. Preparation is, therefore, non-negotiable in leadership. 

“It requires education, exposure, mentorship, and a strong sense of duty and integrity. Young Nigerians must be intentional about preparing themselves to lead, not just politically but in every sphere of society. 

“I call on political parties to take seriously their mandate to scout for and develop young talents, ensuring that leadership succession is deliberate and inclusive. The future of our democracy and the survival of our institutions hinge on this.

“As a government, we have a duty to cultivate an inclusive society that equips young people with the necessary tools and opportunities to succeed. 

“Achieving this demands intentional policies and investment in key sectors, including education, healthcare, digital infrastructure, and job creation. Furthermore, we must acknowledge that including youth is not just a matter of goodwill; it is vital for our nation’s progress.

“The National Assembly has an important role to play in this regard. Through legislation, oversight, and appropriation, we ensure that the voices of all Nigerians, especially young people, are reflected in national policies and programmes. 

“For example, our ongoing efforts to pass bills that expand access to quality education and support start-ups are designed to empower young Nigerians. 

“A 2023 World Bank study shows that countries which prioritise youth-focused investments achieve more sustainable economic growth. The 10th House of Representatives, as the People’s House, will remain at the forefront of this agenda.”