The Nigerian Senate has constituted a committee to address ambiguities in the contentious Tax Reform Bills before the upcoming public hearing.
The committee, chaired by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), was announced by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin (APC, Kano North) during Wednesday’s plenary session.
The committee’s mandate includes consulting with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the executive branch, and other key stakeholders to clarify the contentious aspects of the bills.
On October 3, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, outlining their purpose in a letter presented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Hon. Tajuddeen Abbas.
1. Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.583)
2. Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.584)
3. Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024 (SB.585)
4. Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 (SB.586)
These reforms aim to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal institutions and align with the administration’s developmental goals.
Despite their stated purpose, the bills have faced significant opposition from various groups, including governors, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and some lawmakers.
The committee includes notable members such as Senators Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), and Abdullahi Yahaya (Kebbi North).
The Senate expects the committee’s findings to guide discussions during the public hearing and ensure the reforms align with the interests of all stakeholders.